HKSM
Request for Information (RFI)
A procurement request a buyer uses to gather general, nonbinding information from prospective sellers about their products, services, and capabilities.
Key Points
- Used early in procurement to understand the market and refine requirements.
- Not a bid or proposal request; typically does not ask for pricing or detailed solutions.
- Responses describe seller capabilities, experience, and high-level approaches.
- Often leads to a follow-on RFQ or RFP and does not create a contractual obligation.
Example
A project manager planning a new data analytics platform sends an RFI to several vendors to learn what data integration options, security certifications, and support models they offer. Based on the responses, the team refines requirements and then issues an RFP to a shortlist.
PMP Example Question
You are still shaping project requirements and want to learn what capabilities exist in the marketplace without requesting pricing. Which document should you issue?
- Request for Information (RFI)
- Request for Quotation (RFQ)
- Request for Proposal (RFP)
- Statement of Work (SOW)
Correct Answer: A — RFI, a request for information from potential sellers
Explanation: An RFI gathers general, nonbinding information about vendor capabilities and offerings; RFQs and RFPs seek pricing or detailed solutions, and an SOW describes work to be performed.
