What is CPARS and how is it used in procurement?

• A. A market pricing database used to compare offers.
• B. A vendor registration system for prequalification.
• C. A contract award notification service.
• D. The Past Performance Information Retrieval System; it collects and provides past performance data on contractors for use in evaluations.

Answer: (D)

CPARS is the Past Performance Information Retrieval System. It collects and provides past performance data on contractors for use in evaluations. In procurement, evaluators reference CPARS entries to see how a contractor has performed on prior contracts, looking at factors like quality, schedule, cost control, and business relations, with narrative explanations. This information helps determine performance risk and informs source selection decisions when awarding contracts. CPARS data is generated by contracting offices after contract performance and is used across procurements to support objective comparisons of bidders. It is not a market pricing database, a vendor prequalification system, or a contract award notification service.