-
Introduction
-
RFIs
-
RFI risks
-
RFI example
-
Organizing RFIs
-
Managing RFIs
-
Submittals
-
What goes into a submittal?
-
The submittal workflow
-
Activity
-
Organizing submittals
-
Submittal risks & key takeaways
-
Knowledge check
-
Summary, resources, & what’s next?
-
We want to hear from you!
-
Conclusion
Contract Administration (RFIs & Submittals) -- Construction Bootcamp (Part 9)
Navigate essential project communications.
Instructor: Ben Ashburn
1 hour
Last reviewed 12/2025
Video Content
Course Description
This course will give you valuable insights into managing project information effectively, ensuring smoother operations and successful project delivery. It focuses on two critical processes that keep construction projects on track: Requests for Information (RFIs) and Submittals. It is a beginning-level course designed to provide a solid foundation in these concepts.
First, you will explore RFIs, which are formal written questions used throughout pre-construction and construction phases to resolve issues. These can include unclear or missing information in plans and specifications, or unexpected site conditions. You will understand the RFI workflow, learning how questions originate from specialty contractors, move to the general contractor, then to the architect or engineer for answers, and finally back down to the source. The course also highlights important RFI risks, including potential schedule delays and cost impacts, as RFIs can often result in a change order.
Next, the course covers Submittals, which are crucial for confirming materials, fabricated systems, and equipment before they are ordered and installed. You will learn how submittals ensure that products conform to project specifications and how they are reviewed and approved by architects and engineers.
This comprehensive training will equip you with the knowledge to manage both RFIs and Submittals, understand their workflows, identify potential risks like costly rework or delays from unapproved installations, and navigate resubmittal processes. Ultimately, you will enhance your project management skills for greater construction project success.
Learning Objectives
-
Define RFIs and Submittals in construction.
-
Recreate the workflow diagrams for RFIs and Submittals.
-
Explain the impact of the RFI process and Submittals to a project.
-
Describe strategies for documenting and tracking RFIs and Submittals, comparing manual methods with software tools.
Prerequisites
-
Learning Level: Beginner
-
Prerequisite Knowledge: Completion of Quality, Safety, & Risk.
-
Recommended Knowledge: None.
Continuing Education Course Credits
Course Title: Construction Bootcamp
Course Number: PC-01-061825
Session Number: 1
Curriculum Group Name: AIA Providers
Credit: 12.5 AIA LU
Course Expiration Date: 06/24/2028
Procore's Continuing Education courses may qualify for continuing education credits with other professional organizations or fulfill state licensing requirements. If you are a member of a different organization, you can download your course completion certificate from your learning profile and report your completion yourself to the organization for potential credit. Please refer to the organization's continuing education requirements for course eligibility information.
AIA CES Provider statement
Procore Technologies is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider Number 40108059. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES (cessupport@aia.org or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3).
This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product. AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.
AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tangible skills will I gain from this course that I can immediately apply in my construction role?
You will gain the tangible skills to understand and effectively manage both RFI and Submittal workflows from beginning to end. You will learn to identify and mitigate potential risks such as schedule delays, cost overruns, and rework on projects. This comprehensive training will significantly enhance your overall project management skills, equipping you to handle critical project communication and contribute to greater construction project success.
Does the course cover how construction teams typically organize and track RFIs and Submittals?
Yes, the course explains how RFIs and Submittals are traditionally organized and tracked using tools like Excel spreadsheets and server folders. It highlights the challenges associated with these manual methods, such as a lack of real-time updates and difficulties with collaboration. It also illustrates how RFIs might be tracked manually directly on plan sheets. This insight will help you understand the importance of effective organization for efficient project management.
What's Next
Continue your learning journey
This course is part of the Construction Bootcamp Learning Path. Explore and complete the additional courses in the path below to complete your journey.
-
Construction Bootcamp: Program Intro
View Course PageKickstart your learning journey with the Construction Bootcamp program.
-
Construction Bootcamp: Construction Industry Overview
View Course PageUnderstand the construction landscape, structure, and key players.
-
Construction Phases & Project Delivery Methods
View Course PageUnderstand how projects are organized and executed.
-
Drawings & Specifications
View Course PageLearn to interpret essential project documents.
-
Construction Contracts
View Course PageGrasp the foundational elements of construction agreements.
-
Estimating & Bidding
View Course PageDive into the critical process of costing and proposals.
-
Scheduling
View Course PageMaster techniques for effective project timelines.
-
Quality, Safety, & Risk
View Course PagePrioritize excellence, manage hazards, and mitigate project risks.
-
You are here!
Contract Administration (RFIs & Submittals)
Navigate essential project communications.
-
Contract Administration (Financials)
View Course PageControl costs and manage project scope.
-
Construction Site Operations & Project Controls
View Course PageUnderstand day-to-day site management and oversight.
-
BIM
View Course PageAn introduction to modern construction technology.
-
Professional & Soft Skills For Construction Management
View Course PageDevelop crucial interpersonal and leadership abilities.
-
Program Exam
View Course PageTest your knowledge with the final exam and explore pathways for continuous learning.
Related Resources
Instructors
Ben Ashburn
After a successful career as a construction estimator — working his way up from estimating manager to senior estimator — Ben has spent the most recent part of his career in construction sharing his skills with other as a construction educator. Ben has an extensive background in construction education: He has been an assistant professor in the Department of Construction Science at Texas A&M, and lectured about estimating, scheduling, management, and other related construction topics at Murray State University. He has been a construction training and learning development partner with Procore since 2019.
Reviewers
Janine Trinidad
Janine Trinidad is a Construction Educational professional for Procore Technologies. In previous roles, Janine managed all phases of construction on hotel, mixed-use, and institutional projects in the San Francisco Bay area. She was responsible for negotiating contract budgets and change orders, managing RFIs and submittals, and overseeing quality control, among other duties. She is also a certified transformational coach with a focus on women-centered and trauma-informed methods. She is passionate about transforming the construction industry to be a healthier, more successful and welcoming place to work and believes technology and education are allies in doing so.
Dr. Irish Horsey
Dr. Irish Horsey is a seasoned expert in the construction industry with over 25 years of experience. Currently, she serves as the Director of Industry Advancement at Procore, while also teaching part-time at the Georgia Institute of Technology. A former Assistant Professor at Kennesaw State University, Dr. Horsey specializes in project management, workforce development, and diversity and inclusion in construction. She holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education and a Master's in Construction Management. Her extensive industry experience and academic background make her a trusted leader in advancing best practices and innovative strategies in construction.