How Top GovCons Are Preparing for 2025: Early Insights from the GAUGE Report

The federal contracting space isn’t slowing down and successful GovCons aren’t either. As the 2025 GAUGE Report prepares for release, early takeaways reveal a common thread: top-performing government contractors are shifting gears, tightening operations, and pushing for growth to replace lost revenue and manage uncertainty.

Compiled through a national benchmarking study from Unanet and CohnReznick, this year’s GAUGE data reflects how GovCons are responding to pressure with a strategic eye toward the future.

Modern project oversight is no longer optional

Project management in federal contracting has long been plagued by fragmented processes and outdated processes. But the tide is turning. High-performing companies are moving past traditional methods and embracing organization-wide visibility.

One clear trend is that project delivery is undergoing a major overhaul. More companies are centralizing oversight and moving away from siloed, ad hoc planning models. Instead of juggling spreadsheets or disconnected tools, they’re deploying unified systems that bring visibility and accountability into focus.

The result is that project leads can adjust mid-stream with data in hand, not just instinct. For smaller and mid-sized GovCons, this evolution is especially critical. With tighter margins and leaner teams, real-time coordination is the difference between profitability and project risk.

Tighter planning, better data access, and streamlined task management are helping teams course-correct in real time rather than playing catch-up.

People planning is getting more predictive

Ask any GovCon executive to name their most persistent headache, and workforce planning will be near the top. Shifting contract demands, clearance requirements, and retention challenges make staffing more art than science. But the top tier of performers is changing the equation.

Now, companies are rethinking how they forecast and allocate talent. Who’s available, who’s overloaded, and what will we need next quarter?

Rather than react to staffing problems, high-performing GovCons are preempting them. They’re using tools that integrate across departments to project needs more accurately and make staffing adjustments before performance slips.

This shift is especially critical for small to mid-sized companies, where under- or overutilization can quickly drain cash flow and morale.

Bid smarter, deliver smoother

Finding contracts is only half the battle. The other half is delivering winning proposals. One red flag in this year’s data: many companies still don’t tightly link their proposal development process to how they build their pipeline.

Those that do are cutting down on ramp-up time, aligning resources earlier, and avoiding the scramble that often follows an award. It’s not just about bid strategy—it’s about delivery readiness baked into the pursuit process.

Forecasting must flex with reality

Static financial models aren’t cutting it anymore. Smart GovCons are building adaptive forecasts that combine inputs from across their business (HR, finance, operations) to see what’s coming and act accordingly.

The companies moving past spreadsheet dependence are reaping the benefits: more accurate planning, better scenario modeling, and faster decisions when plans need to shift.

Targeted tech use, not just AI for AI’s sake

AI is making headlines, but most GovCons aren’t using generative tools to write proposals or find new ops…yet. While some companies are exploring artificial intelligence, the real gains are coming from practical automation. Whether it’s smarter dashboards, automated timekeeping, or more intelligent reporting, the goal isn’t flash. It’s freeing up time to pursue growth and reducing friction.

Even companies not diving into AI are making headway with basic digital transformation. The takeaway is that it’s less about the tool and more about using it to clear the clutter from your workflow.

It’s not luck: it’s operational discipline

The GovCons outperforming their peers aren’t relying on good timing. They’re getting serious about execution. The GAUGE Report points to a growing maturity among these companies: strategic use of data, better cross-team coordination, and systems that support smart growth.

The full report drops in June, but one thing’s already clear: GovCons that treat operations like a competitive advantage are the ones charting a stronger path forward. Until the 2025 GAUGE Report launches, visit our website for more on how your GovCon can get ahead.

Unanet also offers plenty of opportunities for you to stay informed about your industry. We have an online customer community and meet up groups for existing customers. We also have a deep resource library with best practices and guidance on how to succeed as a GovCon. For more on how we can help, check out our website and reach out with any questions