By Kim Koster, Vice President of Industry Marketing at Unanet
As 2025 unfolds, government contractors are embracing new opportunities and sharpening their strategies in a fast-moving market. Nearly a quarter describe the business outlook as very optimistic, and that optimism is rooted in real progress. Many firms are modernizing operations, investing in better tools and equipping their teams for what comes next.
These insights will be unveiled in the soon-to-be-released 2025 GAUGE Report, a benchmarking study by Unanet and CohnReznick. Leaders from GovCons of all sizes participated. The data reveals a growing focus on performance, innovation and long-term planning. It also highlights the operational improvements firms are pursuing to stay competitive and compliant in an evolving federal contracting environment.
Project Management: Shifting to Smarter Systems
Managing projects with legacy processes is becoming the exception. More than half of GovCons now use a centralized project management office model, according to the GAUGE Report. This reflects a broader shift toward strategic oversight, streamlined planning and accountability.
Firms are replacing spreadsheets with connected tools that simplify resource management, cost control and progress tracking. This change gives project managers the real-time visibility they need to adjust proactively. While smaller firms still face visibility gaps, more teams are turning to modern platforms that support transparency and coordination.
These tools do more than consolidate data. They improve execution with clearer timelines, faster adjustments, less duplication, and greater confidence in project outcomes.
Resource Management: Turning a Challenge Into an Advantage
Labor planning has long been a complex issue, but improvements are underway. Firms are improving communication, using better forecasting tools and finding new ways to remain flexible within budget constraints. About a third of small- and medium-sized businesses still report cash flow as a top concern. Those seeing the greatest improvement are using technology to better anticipate and manage those financial pressures.
Dashboards, smarter workflows and improved coordination have a measurable impact. Teams that align staffing with both current and upcoming contracts reduce overwork, avoid downtime, and improve profitability. This kind of alignment strengthens both operations and outcomes.
Technology is only part of the equation. Many of the larger firms in the GAUGE Report also emphasize the importance of stronger training and professional development to improve resource management across teams.
Proposal Alignment: Laying the Groundwork for Success
GovCons continue to prioritize growth. That includes improving how they manage proposals and ensuring they are prepared to deliver once contracts are awarded. Tools that connect capture planning and project execution are now essential. This year’s data shows that only 60 percent of firms report their proposal and project planning efforts are “mostly aligned.”
Better alignment reduces friction, improves bid accuracy and builds delivery confidence. For firms managing both active contracts and new pursuits, this connection between teams is key to using resources wisely.
Forecasting With Intent
Forecasting today involves more than just financial projections. Successful firms use input from timekeeping, human resources, and business development to anticipate staffing and cost needs. They are also moving away from spreadsheets in favor of systems that integrate data from across the organization.
The GAUGE Report highlights this shift. Fewer firms are relying on spreadsheets. More are using forecasting tools tied to real-time data. The result is more accurate planning, faster adjustments and better-informed decisions.
Smarter Technology, Practical Outcomes
Some GovCons are incorporating artificial intelligence, but they are doing so to address specific needs. Examples include identifying and winning more of the right opportunities. These are targeted uses with measurable outcomes.
Firms not yet using AI are still adopting automation and digital tools that streamline work. Whether through workflow systems or dynamic reporting tools, the focus is on giving teams what they need to act quickly and with confidence.
How High-performing Firms Stand Out
The most successful GovCons operate with more discipline and coordination. Their data is connected, their workflows are aligned and their systems support growth. These firms view operational efficiency as a critical strategy, not just a technical upgrade.
Unanet helps enable this shift. By bringing forecasting, compliance and project data together in one system, our platform helps GovCons improve visibility, reduce delays and plan for long-term success.
Benchmark Your Performance—Shape Your Next Move
The 2025 GAUGE Report offers a clear view of current trends and peer benchmarks. Whether you are refining internal processes or planning for new contracts, the data provides a helpful guide.
You’ll learn how similar firms are addressing shared challenges, what sets top performers apart, and where your next opportunities may lie. It’s a practical tool to support confident decisions and long-term planning.
The entire 2025 GAUGE Report will be available, for free, in June. Until then, visit our website for more on how to work smarter, move faster and grow with confidence.