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.
RFIs: Distinguish, Apply, and Win
Gain next-level skills with Coursera Plus for $199 (regularly $399). Save now.
RFIs: Distinguish, Apply, and Win
This course is part of Procurement & Sourcing Operations Specialization
Instructor: LearningMate
Included with
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level
Recommended experience
1 hour 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
Recently updated!
January 2026
Taught in English
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills
Build your subject-matter expertise
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
- Earn a shareable career certificate
There are 2 modules in this course
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.
What's included
3 videos1 reading2 assignments
Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.
Instructor
Offered by
Explore more from Business Strategy
Status: Free Trial
Status: Free TrialRutgers the State University of New Jersey
Status: Free TrialAirbus Beyond
Status: Free Trial
Why people choose Coursera for their career
Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."
Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 10,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy
Frequently asked questions
To access the course materials, assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience when you enroll in a course. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid. The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.
Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.
More questions
Financial aid available,
¹ Some assignments in this course are AI-graded. For these assignments, your data will be used in accordance with Coursera's Privacy Notice.