Black Hat Review

What is Black Hat Review?

A black hat review is an internal competitive assessment that examines how other bidders may approach an opportunity. It helps a contractor test its assumptions and identify weaknesses in its position. It is a planning exercise, not access to competitors' private proposals or government source-selection information.

How to use it

Use public and appropriately obtained information. Separate facts, hypotheses, and unknowns. Examine likely strengths under the published evaluation factors. Record what the team can improve rather than treating speculation about a competitor as a confirmed fact.

Example

An incumbent may have transition knowledge that a new entrant lacks. The reviewing team tests whether its own transition plan and evidence address that advantage. It does not assume knowledge of the incumbent's proposed price.

Reference

Related CLEATUS guide.

Further reading

Proposal planning and review guide.