Source & Authority Information
- •SAM.gov Dynamic Small Business Search(accessed 2026-01-15)
Understanding DSBS and Its Role
Key Profile Elements
- Business name and DBA: Legal name and any trade names you use
- NAICS codes: Primary and additional codes describing your capabilities
- Keywords: Searchable terms that buyers use to find vendors
- Capabilities narrative: Description of your services and products
- Certifications: 8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, SDVOSB, and other designations
- Geographic coverage: States and regions where you can perform work
- Size status: Small business status for each NAICS code
- Contact information: Key personnel and their direct contact details
NAICS Code Strategy
Keyword Optimization
- 1Research Buyer Language
Review solicitations, statements of work, and market research announcements in your target markets. Note the specific terms, phrases, and acronyms used. This is the language buyers will search with.
- 2List Core Capabilities
Identify your primary service and product offerings. Include technical specialties, industry focus areas, and functional capabilities. These form your keyword foundation.
- 3Add Certifications and Clearances
Include relevant certifications, security clearances, and compliance credentials. Buyers often search for these qualifications specifically.
- 4Include Technology and Tools
List specific technologies, platforms, software, and tools you use. Buyers needing specific technical capabilities search for these terms.
- 5Test and Refine
Search DSBS using your keywords to verify you appear. Adjust terms that do not return your profile. Monitor which keywords drive actual inquiries and refine accordingly.
Writing Your Capabilities Narrative
Geographic Coverage Settings
Certification and Status Display
Contact Information Best Practices
Maintaining Your Profile
- Review quarterly: Check all profile elements for accuracy and completeness
- Update for new capabilities: Add NAICS codes and keywords when expanding offerings
- Verify contacts: Ensure all listed personnel still work in those roles
- Refresh narrative: Update capabilities description as your experience grows
- Check certifications: Verify displayed certifications match current status
- Test searches: Periodically search DSBS to verify your profile appears appropriately
Common DSBS Profile Mistakes
- Incomplete information: Fill out every available field with accurate data
- Generic descriptions: Replace boilerplate with specific, distinctive content
- Outdated contacts: Verify all contact information works and reaches responsive people
- Excessive NAICS codes: Only list codes for work you can actually perform
- Missing keywords: Include terms buyers actually search for
- Set and forget: Profiles need regular review and updates
