XL EagleCPARS (Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System)
CPARS stands for Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System. CPARS is the official federal system where contracting agencies record performance evaluations of their contractors. Each evaluation rates areas such as quality, schedule, cost control, management and small business subcontracting on a five-level scale from Exceptional to Unsatisfactory.
After an evaluation is written, the contractor is notified and has 14 calendar days to review and comment before it becomes available to other agencies. Source selection officials across the government can then read these records when judging your past performance on future bids.
Why it matters to a small contractor
Make sure your SAM past performance point of contact is someone who checks email, so you never miss a CPARS notice. A short, factual, professional comment can balance an unfair rating.
Example
A janitorial contractor receives a CPARS evaluation rating its schedule as Marginal because of a late start. The owner adds a comment explaining that the agency delayed building access, with dates.
CPARS: common questions
Can I dispute a CPARS rating?
You can comment and ask for a meeting with the assessing official. If you disagree with the final evaluation, you can request review by a higher-level official in the agency.
Who can see my CPARS ratings?
Federal acquisition officials can see them. They are not open to the general public or to your competitors.
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