Subject Matter Expert(SME)
An individual with specialized knowledge or expertise in a particular area, often proposed as key personnel or consulted during proposal development.
Overview
A Subject Matter Expert (SME) is a person with deep knowledge and experience in a specific domain — technical, functional, or regulatory. In government contracting, SMEs are proposed as key personnel, used to develop proposal content, or retained as consultants. Their expertise supports technical credibility and helps ensure proposals and performance meet complex requirements.
Why It Matters in GovCon
SMEs strengthen proposals by providing domain authority. Evaluation teams look for evidence that proposed personnel have the right expertise. SMEs also support capture and proposal efforts — translating requirements, identifying risks, and shaping technical approaches. On contract, SMEs may be key personnel or part of the broader team.
Key Details
- Key Personnel: SMEs are often proposed as named key personnel with resumes in the proposal.
- Proposal Development: SMEs contribute to technical volumes, past performance, and risk sections.
- Domain Areas: IT, cybersecurity, engineering, healthcare, logistics, finance, and regulatory compliance.
- Availability: Proposed SMEs must be committed and available; bait-and-switch is prohibited.
- Certifications: SME credentials (degrees, certifications, publications) enhance credibility.
Related Terms
- Key Personnel
- Program Manager (PM)
- Technical Approach
- Past Performance
More Personnel Terms
Specific individuals named in a contract proposal whose qualifications are critical to performance and who cannot be replaced without government approval.
A directive issued by the President that carries the force of law for the executive branch.
A globally recognized certification from PMI that validates competency in project management, often required or preferred for key personnel on government contracts.
The senior executive responsible for an organization's IT strategy, systems, and operations, overseeing IT investments and cybersecurity.
The senior civilian official responsible for all acquisition matters within a particular military service branch.
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