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ToggleRequest for Information (RFI) documents are indispensable in construction project management. However, the question remains: how many RFIs are too many? This question has been raised by structural engineers and other AEC professionals, highlighting the delicate balance between necessary communication and potential project delays.
In this article, we explore the importance of construction RFI management, the challenges of managing them, and best practices for maintaining efficiency in construction projects.
RFIs serve as a formal means of communication between contractors, engineers, and architects. They help clarify ambiguities, address unforeseen issues, and ensure everyone is on the same page.
The number of RFIs can vary widely depending on factors such as project size, complexity, and team dynamics. And it will take effective construction RFI management to maintain project timelines and avoid costly delays.
You might find yourself asking, just like the structural engineer on Reddit, “How many RFIs are too many?”
The reality is, there’s no straightforward answer to this question. The volume of RFIs you encounter during a construction project can be influenced by numerous factors, including but not limited to:
Additionally, analyzing historical data from construction projects can help identify average RFI frequencies. One industry professional on Reddit suggested a rough guideline of 10 RFIs per million dollars in contract value based on his analysis of past projects. While this isn’t a hard rule, it provides a useful benchmark for your teams to consider.
The reason many architects and engineers are concerned about high volumes of RFIs is the negative impact these excessive RFIs can have on projects. Some of these include:
Managing the volume of RFIs effectively is crucial for maintaining project timelines and ensuring smooth communication. Here are some practical tips and techniques for reducing RFI frequency and improving their quality:
RFIs serve as a crucial risk management tool for contractors. They help clarify ambiguities and document important decisions. However, striking a balance between thorough documentation and efficient project progression is key.
Hence, proactive construction RFI management can lead to more efficient project execution and better outcomes for all stakeholders.
The consensus among AEC professionals in this Reddit discussion is that the quality of RFIs matters more than the quantity. If each RFI has merit and contributes to the project’s success, a high number isn’t necessarily problematic.
However, an excessive number of low-quality RFIs can indicate underlying issues that need addressing.
Document management and collaboration software like zipBoard offer robust features that can significantly improve RFI management by:
Additionally, the platform provides API integrations that allow you to connect zipBoard with your cloud storage or Document Management Systems (DMS). This means you don’t have to manually move documents, saving time and reducing the risk of errors.
Learn more: Streamline Your AEC Workflows with zipBoard Integrations and APIs
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Book DemoStart Free TrialDorcas Kpabitey is a Content Marketing Specialist at zipBoard. She began her content marketing journey alongside her BA in Political Science and Spanish degree at the University of Ghana. If she's not tapping away at her keyboard or spending time on Twitter and LinkedIn, she spends her day reading articles, newsletters and books.
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