Request for Information

A Request for Information (RFI) is a standard business process whose purpose is to collect written information about the capabilities of various suppliers. Normally it follows a format that can be used for comparative purposes.

So an RFI is primarily used to gather information to help make a decision on what steps to take next. RFI’s are therefore seldom the final stage, but instead are often used in combination with: Request For Proposal (RFP), Request For Tender (RFT), and Request For Quotation (RFQ). In addition to gathering basic information, an RFI is often used as a solicitation sent to a broad base of potential suppliers for the purpose of conditioning supplier's minds, developing strategy, building a database, and preparing for a RFP, RFT, or RFQ. [ [http://www.negotiations.com/articles/procurement-terms/ How Request for Information should be used in business | Negotiation Experts ] ]

RFI Procedure in the construction industry is used in cases where it is necessary to confirm the interpretation of a detail, specification or note on the construction drawings or to secure a documented directive or clarification from the architect or Client that is needed to continue work.

An RFI raised by the General Contractor that has been answered by the Client or Architect and distributed to all stakeholders is generally accepted as a change to the scope of work unless further approval is required for costs associated with the change.

See also

*Request For Proposal (RFP)
*Request For Tender (RFT)
*Request For Quotation (RFQ)

References and Further Reading

RFC Request For Change

Extended Components

* Objective/Summary
* Timeline
* Storyboard or Screenshots
* Deliverables - "The bare minimum"
* Evaluation criteria - "For any bonuses"
* Payment terms