Construction Submittals & RFI Software

A Request for Information (RFI) is a formal query raised during a construction project to clarify uncertainties or fill gaps in project documentation. RFIs are essential for ensuring all stakeholders have a clear understanding of project requirements and constraints. Bluebeam software helps simplify the process of creating and assigning RFIs.

In construction, RFI is a formalised method of communication used during a construction project to address uncertainties or seek clarifications about project details. It is typically issued when there are gaps, inconsistencies, or ambiguities in project documents, drawings, or specifications. It ensures that all project stakeholders, including contractors, designers, and owners, have a shared understanding of project requirements.

Creating an effective RFI involves:

• Identifying the issue: Clearly define the problem or gap in documentation
• Providing context: Attach relevant drawings, notes, or plans
• Submitting standardised template: Bluebeam’s customisable RFI templates ensure consistency and professionalism

Typically, RFIs are submitted by contractors or subcontractors to designers, architects, or project managers. Bluebeam simplifies this process with its centralised, cloud-based platform where they can export project files, post RFIs to drawings and share across devices. They can also assign, manage, and organise submittals while tracking reviews and approvals from the palm of their hand.

Construction project managers, contractors, subcontractors, architects, engineers, and other stakeholders involved in construction projects can benefit from using RFI management and tracking software. It helps streamline communication, track RFIs efficiently, reduce delays, improve collaboration, and enhance project transparency.

A construction submittal is a document, sample, or data set provided by a contractor to demonstrate how work will comply with the project’s design and specifications. Submittals are reviewed by designers or project owners to ensure adherence to project standards.

While an RFI seeks clarification on project details, a submittal confirms compliance with the agreed design and specifications. To put it simply, RFIs address “what” and “why,” whereas submittals focus on “how.”

Construction submittals typically include a variety of materials to ensure that the project meets all requirements and specifications. Some common materials include shop drawings, material samples, engineering calculations, mockups, and vendor information. Other submittals are prepared during project closeout, and include items like product warranties and as-built drawings.

Bluebeam submittal software creates a straight-forward process for sharing materials, data and drawings with your client and getting their approval. With Bluebeam, you also can post RFIs to drawings and the map view to share across devices, enabling real-time access to the latest information.