NAICS and PSC Codes: A Buyer Research Workflow
Use classification codes as research aids, then read the underlying work. Use this practical checklist to prepare your next federal pursuit.
Use classification codes as research aids, then read the underlying work. A code can bring together purchases that differ greatly in scope, delivery model and suitability for your business.
Start with the evidence
Choose candidate codes from the work you actually perform. For a live solicitation, read its assigned NAICS and applicable size standard rather than assuming your preferred code controls the opportunity.
Turn the review into a decision
Pair code searches with capability keywords and buying-office filters. Inspect a sample of results and remove unrelated work before drawing conclusions about your market.
A practical example
A software supplier searching a broad technology code may find hardware, support and integration awards. Categorizing those results prevents a misleading claim that every dollar represents demand for its software.
Your working checklist
- Candidate codes: record the supporting fact, owner and next action.
- Capability keywords: record the supporting fact, owner and next action.
- Buying-office filters: record the supporting fact, owner and next action.
- Relevant scope sample: record the supporting fact, owner and next action.
- Excluded results and reasons: record the supporting fact, owner and next action.
What to do next
Write down the unresolved issue most likely to change your decision. Assign someone to resolve it before committing more proposal time. Keep the result in your pursuit record so your next review starts with evidence rather than memory.
For related guidance, read our proposal evaluation briefing. If you need help applying the review to your business, see our federal accelerator scope and pricing.
References
The checklist and illustrative example are editorial planning tools. The solicitation and applicable program requirements govern each live procurement.