What does FAR Part 10 primarily focus on?

FAR Part 10 primarily focuses on market research, which is a critical process for federal agencies as they seek to understand the capabilities, trends, and pricing structures present in the marketplace before making purchasing decisions. Conducting thorough market research helps agencies ensure that they are obtaining the best value while making informed decisions related to acquisition strategy.

Market research assists in identifying potential sources and assessing the availability of commercial items or services, which ultimately aligns with the principles of fair and open competition. It further emphasizes the need for agencies to obtain sufficient information to determine appropriate contract types, develop statements of work, and understand how to structure their solicitations effectively.

This part of the FAR sets the foundation for informed decision-making by promoting the gathering, analysis, and utilization of data regarding the marketplace and potential supplier capabilities. Thus, the focus on market research is essential for achieving competition and innovation in procurement processes.