RFI vs RFP
RFI (Request for Information) and RFP (Request for Proposal) both come up in business conversations and get confused. Here's the plain-English difference, side by side, so you can use each one with confidence.
The key difference: RFI refers to request for information, while RFP refers to request for proposal — they describe different things even when they show up in the same sentence.
RFI — Request for Information
An informal early-stage document buyers send to gather information about what vendors can do — before a formal RFP.
RFP — Request for Proposal
A formal document buyers send to vendors describing requirements and asking for detailed proposals, pricing, and timelines.
When to use RFI
Reach for "RFI" when the conversation is specifically about request for information. An informal early-stage document buyers send to gather information about what vendors can do — before a formal RFP.
When to use RFP
Reach for "RFP" when the conversation is specifically about request for proposal. A formal document buyers send to vendors describing requirements and asking for detailed proposals, pricing, and timelines.
FAQs
What is the difference between RFI and RFP?
RFI stands for Request for Information — An informal early-stage document buyers send to gather information about what vendors can do — before a formal RFP. RFP stands for Request for Proposal — A formal document buyers send to vendors describing requirements and asking for detailed proposals, pricing, and timelines.
Are RFI and RFP the same thing?
No. They're often used in the same conversation because they're related, but they describe different concepts. RFI = Request for Information. RFP = Request for Proposal.
When should I use RFI vs RFP?
Use RFI when you're specifically referring to request for information. Use RFP when the topic is request for proposal.