NAICS Code Guide
Computer Systems Design Services
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services · SBA Size Standard: $34M · ~85,000 registered entities
NAICS 541512 is the top federal contracting code for IT systems integrators, custom software developers, and cloud migration firms. Every federal agency — DoD, DHS, HHS, VA — buys heavily under this code.
About NAICS 541512
NAICS 541512 (Computer Systems Design Services) is the most frequently awarded NAICS code in federal contracting, accounting for tens of billions of dollars in annual contract awards. This code covers companies that design, develop, and integrate computer hardware and software systems for clients — including custom application development, systems integration, cloud migration, cybersecurity implementation, and enterprise IT architecture. Nearly every major federal IT vendor — from large systems integrators like Leidos, SAIC, and Booz Allen Hamilton to thousands of small IT firms — lists 541512 as a primary NAICS code.
541512
NAICS Code
$34M
SBA Size Standard
85,000
Registered Entities
Applicable Set-Aside Programs
Companies that qualify under NAICS 541512 and hold applicable SBA certifications can compete for set-aside contracts reserved for these programs. Certifications are linked to your CAGE code record in SAM.gov.
Learn about set-aside programs →Top Federal Buyers Under NAICS 541512
These agencies award the most contract dollars under this NAICS code. See full award data on FedAtlas.com.
What Companies Fall Under NAICS 541512?
Companies primarily engaged in planning and designing computer systems that integrate computer hardware, software, and communication technologies. This includes:
- Federal IT systems integrators and prime contractors
- Custom enterprise software developers
- Cloud migration and DevSecOps shops
- Cybersecurity implementation firms (not primarily research — see 541519)
- Network design and architecture companies
- Data center modernization vendors
If your company primarily installs and configures commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) software, you may also qualify under 541519 (Other Computer Related Services). If you primarily write new software, consider 541511 (Custom Computer Programming Services).
SBA Size Standard for NAICS 541512
The SBA size standard for NAICS 541512 is $34 million in average annual receipts over the past three years. Companies at or below this threshold qualify as a small business for set-aside contracts under this NAICS.
This revenue-based standard means many mid-sized IT firms qualify as small. The DoD, GSA, and civilian agencies all use this code for small business set-asides including 8(a), WOSB, SDVOSB, and HUBZone competitions.
Top Federal Buyers Under NAICS 541512
Based on FPDS-NG and USASpending.gov data, the largest federal buyers under NAICS 541512 include:
- Department of Defense — largest single buyer; includes Army, Navy, Air Force, DISA, DARPA, and combatant commands
- Department of Homeland Security — CBP, TSA, CISA, FEMA IT modernization
- Department of Health and Human Services — NIH, CMS, CDC information systems
- General Services Administration — GovWide IT vehicles, 8(a) STARS III, OASIS+
- Department of Veterans Affairs — VistA modernization, EHR, benefits IT
Common Contract Vehicles for 541512
Federal IT contracts under 541512 are frequently awarded through IDIQ vehicles:
- 8(a) STARS III — GSA GWAC for 8(a) small businesses; $50B ceiling
- OASIS+ — GSA professional services IDIQ; includes 541512 labor categories
- SEWP V — NASA GWAC for IT products and solutions
- ALLIANT 2 Small Business — GSA GWAC for small IT integrators
- CIOSP3 — NIH IT GWAC
- SEAPORT-NxG — Navy professional and technical services
A CAGE code and active SAM.gov registration is required to bid on task orders under any of these vehicles.
Look Up a NAICS 541512 Vendor
Decode any CAGE code to verify a vendor's primary NAICS code, SAM status, and certifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 541512 the right NAICS code for cybersecurity firms?
It depends on your primary work. If you design and implement security architectures and systems, 541512 fits. If you primarily conduct security testing and assessments, consider 541519. DARPA and DoD cyber programs often use 541712 (R&D in Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences) for advanced cyber research.
Can a company have multiple NAICS codes?
Yes. SAM.gov allows you to list multiple NAICS codes in your registration. Your primary NAICS determines your small business size standard for most set-asides, but you can bid on contracts under any NAICS you've listed.
What is the SBA size standard for NAICS 541512?
$34 million in average annual receipts over the prior three fiscal years.
Contract Award Data
NAICS 541512 Awards on FedAtlas.com
See every federal contract won under NAICS 541512 — by company, agency, state, and year.
NAICS 541512 Quick Facts
- Code
- 541512
- Sector
- Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
- SBA Size Standard
- $34M
Quick Decode
Related NAICS Codes
- 541511 Custom Computer Programming Service...
- 541519 Other Computer Related Services
- 541611 Administrative Management and Gener...
- 541330 Engineering Services
- 541715 Research and Development in the Phy...