Custom Computer Programming Services
Size Standard: $34 million
NAICS code 541511 covers Custom Computer Programming Services, a critical category for government agencies seeking tailored software solutions. This industry includes establishments primarily engaged in writing, modifying, testing, and supporting software to meet the needs of a particular customer. Unlike packaged software, these are custom solutions designed specifically for government operations.
Federal, state, and local governments rely extensively on custom programming services for everything from mission-critical defense systems to citizen-facing web applications. The Department of Defense alone awards billions in contracts for custom software development, including weapons systems software, logistics applications, and intelligence analysis tools.
Contractors under NAICS 541511 provide services such as custom application development, legacy system modernization, mobile app development, API integration, and specialized database programming. The growing emphasis on agile development methodologies and DevSecOps has created new opportunities for nimble contractors who can deliver iterative solutions quickly.
The size standard of $34 million makes this accessible for small businesses, and many agencies have aggressive small business goals for software development. Subcontracting opportunities are abundant, as large defense contractors frequently need specialized programming expertise they don't maintain in-house.
- Department of Defense (DoD)
- Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
- Social Security Administration (SSA)
- Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
- Custom Web Application Development
- Legacy System Modernization
- Mobile Application Development
- Database Development and Integration
- Agile Software Development Services
These certifications can help you compete for set-aside contracts under NAICS 541511:
What is NAICS code 541511 used for in government contracting?
NAICS code 541511 covers Custom Computer Programming Services, which includes writing, modifying, testing, and supporting software customized to meet specific government requirements. This differs from off-the-shelf software products.
What is the size standard for NAICS 541511?
The SBA size standard for NAICS 541511 is $34 million in average annual receipts. Companies below this threshold qualify as small businesses for government set-aside contracts.
How is NAICS 541511 different from 541512?
NAICS 541511 focuses specifically on custom software programming, while 541512 covers broader computer systems design including hardware and software integration. 541511 is more narrowly focused on code development.
What skills are most in demand for NAICS 541511 contracts?
High-demand skills include Python, Java, JavaScript/React, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), DevSecOps practices, agile methodologies, and experience with government security requirements like FedRAMP.
Can small businesses compete for large NAICS 541511 contracts?
Yes, through small business set-asides, 8(a) sole-source awards, mentor-protégé arrangements, and teaming with large primes. Many large IT contracts have small business subcontracting goals.
Businesses below this threshold in average annual receipts qualify as small businesses for set-aside contracts.
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