Request for Information (RFI)


A Request for Information (RFI) is a formal document used by organizations to gather detailed information from potential vendors, suppliers, or service providers before making decisions on products, services, or project proposals.

An RFI is typically one of the first steps in a procurement or project evaluation process and serves as a tool to clarify options, understand capabilities, and identify potential solutions available in the market.

Below are two sample Request for Information (RFI) documents: one for a software development project and another for office equipment procurement. Each sample provides a framework to request preliminary information from potential vendors.

Request for Information (RFI) sample 1

Request for Information (RFI) for Software Development Services

Issued by: ABC Company
Issue Date: [Date]
Response Due Date: [Response Due Date]

1. Introduction

ABC Company is seeking information from qualified software development firms to assist in the creation of a custom project management platform tailored to our operational needs. This RFI aims to gather information on available solutions, service capabilities, and estimated costs.

2. Company Overview

ABC Company is a mid-sized organization specializing in logistics and supply chain management. We are exploring custom software development to improve project tracking, client communication, and data integration across departments.

3. Project Overview and Requirements

The goal of the project is to develop a web-based project management platform that allows for task tracking, real-time updates, reporting, and integration with existing software tools (e.g., ERP and CRM systems). The primary features we are interested in include:

  • Task creation and assignment with deadline tracking
  • Real-time collaboration and messaging
  • Reporting tools for productivity and project timelines
  • API integration capabilities
  • User-friendly interface adaptable for desktop and mobile devices

4. RFI Objectives

This RFI seeks information regarding:

  • Your company’s experience in custom software development
  • General approach and timeline for similar projects
  • Availability of pre-built or customizable solutions
  • Cost estimates and pricing models (e.g., fixed-price, hourly rates)
  • Support and maintenance services offered post-delivery

5. Questions for Vendors

Please address the following in your response:

  1. Provide a summary of similar projects your team has completed, including project scope, duration, and outcomes.
  2. Describe the process and methodology your team would use for this project.
  3. What is your typical project timeline for a platform of this scale?
  4. Provide an estimated cost structure for similar projects, including development, testing, and deployment costs.
  5. Describe your post-launch support and maintenance options, including pricing.
  6. What security measures and protocols do you implement in custom software?

6. Submission Guidelines

Please submit your response by [Response Due Date] to [Contact Person’s Email Address]. Responses should be in PDF format and include the company’s contact information.

7. Next Steps

Based on the responses to this RFI, ABC Company will shortlist vendors for a Request for Proposal (RFP) process. We anticipate moving forward with the RFP within 4-6 weeks.

Contact Information

Contact Person: [Name]
Email: [Email Address]
Phone: [Phone Number]

Thank you for your interest in working with ABC Company.

Request for Information (RFI) sample 2

Request for Information (RFI) for Office Equipment Suppliers

Issued by: XYZ Solutions
Issue Date: [Date]
Response Due Date: [Response Due Date]

1. Introduction

XYZ Solutions is in the process of upgrading its office equipment across multiple locations. We are looking to understand options and pricing for high-quality office furniture, printers, scanners, and ergonomic desks and chairs. This RFI is intended to gather product information and service offerings from office equipment suppliers.

2. Company Overview

XYZ Solutions is a fast-growing consulting firm with office locations in [Location 1], [Location 2], and [Location 3]. Our team of approximately 200 employees requires ergonomic workspaces, efficient printing solutions, and upgraded office furniture to enhance productivity and comfort.

3. Requirements and Specifications

The equipment we are interested in includes:

  • Ergonomic chairs and adjustable desks
  • Multi-functional printers and scanners
  • Storage cabinets and workstations
  • Conference room furniture, including tables and chairs
  • Delivery, setup, and maintenance options

4. Objectives of this RFI

Our goals are to:

  • Learn about available office equipment that meets our specifications.
  • Compare suppliers’ offerings and service options, including delivery and maintenance.
  • Obtain estimated pricing for budgeting purposes.
  • Understand warranty, service plans, and maintenance options.

5. Questions for Vendors

Please address the following in your response:

  1. Provide an overview of the products you offer that match our requirements, including brand options, specifications, and materials used.
  2. Describe any delivery, setup, and installation services offered.
  3. What are the available warranty and maintenance service plans, and what do they cover?
  4. Do you offer volume discounts, and what are the price breaks for larger orders?
  5. Provide estimated pricing for your products and any additional fees for installation, setup, or maintenance.
  6. Are you able to support multiple locations, and do you have experience with distributed office equipment deployment?

6. Submission Guidelines

Please submit your response by [Response Due Date] to [Contact Person’s Email Address]. Responses should be formatted as a PDF and include the company’s contact information, along with relevant brochures or catalogs if applicable.

7. Next Steps

Based on responses to this RFI, XYZ Solutions may invite selected suppliers to participate in a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) for final selection. We expect to move to the RFP phase within the next 2-3 months.

Contact Information

Contact Person: [Name]
Email: [Email Address]
Phone: [Phone Number]

Thank you for your interest in supporting XYZ Solutions.

These RFIs clearly outline the objectives, requirements, and specific questions that vendors need to address, enabling the organization to make informed decisions about potential suppliers. Adjustments may be made based on project specifics, and providing enough detail will ensure that responses are relevant and comprehensive.