Construction projects can be extremely complex, given the cost and time to build them. To successfully and safely complete these projects requires every piece of the puzzle to be synced, including teams and third-party firms.

1. Make your RFI management easier and cut down on unnecessary
project costs with iFieldSmart Technologies.
Construction projects can be extremely complex, given the cost and time to
build them. To successfully and safely complete these projects requires every
piece of the puzzle to be synced, including teams and third-party firms.
Stakeholders need to be completely aware of how the project will unfold at
every stage of the project. Changing parameters during the plan, bid, and
construction phase can take projects in different directions, leading to
wavering project scope.
“Reviewing and responding to each RFI can cost a construction
firm $1000 or above, while the accumulated costs for a project
could be more than $900,000”
It is impossible to keep projects on track and people on the same page without
accurate, complete, and valid RFIs. A Request for Information (RFI) form or
document supports people and projects with time and cost-efficiency. An RFI
streams information from design and engineering teams to identify project
parameters that have evolved since the contract or original bid. RFIs serve as

2. communication channels to drive dynamic planning and informed decision-
making to complete costly and fast-track construction projects.
Let's understand how construction RFIs are utilized in the AEC industry. Here
we incorporate granular details on where RFIs become uncertain and analyze
the RFI structure. We will also consider the use of construction management
apps like iFieldSmart Technologies to create and manage RFIs to
streamline design and construction.
What is a construction RFI?
An RFI serves as a crucial document to extend the horizon of the project
through details shared between designers, engineers, and construction teams.
In essence, an RFI is documented communication utilized by contractors and
subcontractors to assemble additional information as the project evolves.
Information within an RFI is data that wasn’t initially incorporated into the
project contract scope. RFIs are also created to –
▪ Collect information on the surrounding parameters that cannot be
concluded from the original contract
▪ Clarify other aspects of a construction project
▪ Make changes wherever required
An RFI can be or is used with other documents that include,
(RFP) - Request for Proposal
(RFT) - Request for Tender
(RFQ) - Request for Quotation
Various Types of construction RFIs.
RFIs can be classified into a myriad of types, but we would be listing and
discussing the most commonly used in construction projects.
1. Changes in Design.
2. Clarification on incomplete data for specs, plans, etc.
3. Changes in materials
4. Time-centric RFIs
5. Onsite conditions
6. Constructability problems
7. Coordination (Design, Construction)

3. Why do construction teams create and send RFIs?
Contractors or subcontractors create and communicate RFIs to include diverse
information or details to move ahead in a project.
▪ Clarify or change design elements or conflicts - clarify design
elements, resolve design flaws, and request information on incomplete
plans.
▪ Request changes in materials or suggest substitutions – request
information on changes in planned materials or resources, and introduce
new variables to proceed within budget.
▪ Outline issues based on constructability and achieve greater
details – clarify constructability issues through greater information
clarity.
How to create an RFI?
▪ Begin with a question that is clear and concise to remove confusion
▪ Build a strong context around the question with easy-to-understand
language
▪ Ask for information through visuals including drawings, sketches, or
videos
▪ Make recommendations for a solution in the RFI
When should RFIs not be used?
▪ RFIs should not be used to communicate regular information
▪ RFIs should not be used to include the design or engineering
elements that were unaccounted for during initial bidding and
planning
▪ RFIs should not be used to share safety plans
▪ RFIs should not be used to submit scheduling data or information
▪ RFIs should not be used to seek approval on modifications
▪ RFIs should not be used to provide general comments on a
construction project
Using construction management software to create and streamline
the RFI process.
A myriad of construction firms leverage powerful construction management
tools to facilitate improved project planning and management. Each submitted
RFI can cost at least $1000. The scope and size of the project can lead to
millions of dollars in RFI creation leading to extensive cost overruns and

4. project delays. Utilizing construction management software from iFieldSmart
Technologies supports contractors and subcontractors reduce admin costs.
Looking for your next construction management software to
streamline your RFI needs?
Explore our construction management capabilities for RFI
management.
For more information: +17034688575
Visit us: -www.ifieldsmart.com/