request for information (RFI)

Requesr for Information(RFI) is a process in which information is collected from potential suppliers of a product or service. Corresponding requests are sent by customers to potential suppliers and supplier lists are created from the responses.

RFI information is collected, structured, and tagged with the specific quotes so that suppliers can be bid-selected for RFQs and RFPs. RFI information clarifies the differences between the various suppliers. RFI requests to suppliers should be limited to the critical information and not go into detail. To allow for economic comparison, they should include scope of services and costs