RFIs: Distinguish, Apply, and Win

This course is part of Procurement & Sourcing Operations Specialization

Instructor: LearningMate

Access provided by ExxonMobil

2 modules

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

Beginner level

Recommended experience

2 hours to complete

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

2 modules

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

Beginner level

Recommended experience

2 hours to complete

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

Evaluate when to use an RFI vs. an RFQ based on project needs, and apply a standard process for issuing RFIs to suppliers.

Skills you'll gain

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

Assessments

3 assignments¹

AI Graded see disclaimer

Taught in English

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This course is part of the Procurement & Sourcing Operations Specialization

When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.

Learn new concepts from industry experts
Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
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There are 2 modules in this course

RFIs: Distinguish, Apply, and Win is a foundational course for procurement professionals who want to master the art of early-stage supplier engagement. Using the wrong tool for the job leads to confusing responses, wasted time, and poor sourcing decisions. This course provides the essential knowledge to distinguish between a Request for Information (RFI) and a Request for Quotation (RFQ), ensuring that you approach the market with a clear and strategic purpose every time.

You will learn to analyze your project needs to determine whether you should explore the market with an RFI or solicit firm pricing with an RFQ. Through hands-on activities, you will master a standardized, three-step process for issuing a professional RFI: populating a template, distributing it to suppliers, and systematically filing the responses. Drawing on real-world templates and best practices, you will build a portfolio that demonstrates your ability to conduct clean, compliant, and effective market research that sets the stage for procurement success.

This module focuses on the critical strategic decision of which procurement document to use and when. We explore why confusing an RFI with an RFQ results in inefficient sourcing and poor outcomes. You will learn what defines each document and the distinct roles in the procurement lifecycle. You will then learn how to use a simple framework to decide the appropriate tool for your specific need. You will apply this knowledge in practice scenarios and assess your understanding, ensuring that you can confidently choose the right path forward.

What's included

2 videos1 reading1 assignment

This module provides the practical, step-by-step skills to execute a professional RFI process. You will learn why a standardized process is essential for compliance and fair comparison. We will provide a downloadable RFI template (what) and show you how to populate, distribute, and file it according to best practices. You will apply your skills in a guided dialogue and then be assessed in a final project where you manage an entire RFI process from start to finish.