Federal Contracting Acronym
FIPS
Federal Information Processing Standards
Plain-English definition
Federal Information Processing Standards are publicly announced standards developed by NIST for use in federal information systems. In federal practice, Federal Information Processing Standards connects to how contracting officers, program offices, and industry teams interpret requirements, document decisions, and execute awards. Authoritative context is typically found in NIST materials and agency supplements where applicable. Contractors should trace how FIPS appears in the specific solicitation or contract rather than assuming uniform usage across agencies.
Why it matters
Understanding Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) reduces misalignment during proposal preparation, contract performance, and compliance reviews tied to cybersecurity obligations.
Where you will see it
SAM.gov notices, contract clauses and attachments, DoD forms and supply systems when applicable, and internal capture or program management documentation.
Example in context
During a bid review, the capture lead notes FIPS in the solicitation, assigns a subject-matter owner to confirm requirements, and records the decision in the compliance matrix.