The RFI Bottleneck: Why Good Projects Get Stuck and How We Prevent It

Projects Don’t Fall Behind Overnight

You’ve got boots on the ground, equipment ready, and materials lined up, but progress stalls. Why? One unanswered question.

In construction, RFIs (Requests for Information) are where things often break down. A simple clarification, missed or delayed, can hold up crews, blow timelines, and cost thousands. The good news? It’s avoidable.

At GCCW, we treat RFI management as a priority, not paperwork. Our job is to keep projects moving, and that starts with solving issues before they become roadblocks.

 

What Is an RFI, Really?

An RFI is a formal request from the field to clarify something that doesn’t line up with the drawings, specs, or site conditions. It might be:

 

• • Conflicting info between the mechanical and structural drawings

• • A missing detail that’s critical to install

• • A material or method substitution needing approval

• • Something that just doesn’t match the real world

RFIs aren’t just admin, they’re a lifeline. And how we handle them can make or break a project.

 

How GCCW Manages RFIs Differently

Here’s how we stay ahead of delays:

 

• • We ask better questions – Our field leads frame RFIs clearly and with context, so they’re easier to answer.

• • We follow up fast – Every RFI is tracked, assigned, and chased down until it’s closed.

• • We set expectations early – During kickoff, we agree on response times with clients and consultants, so no one’s left waiting.

• • We escalate when needed – If a delay threatens the schedule, we don’t wait, we get everyone on the phone.

RFIs can pile up quickly. That’s why our project managers don’t just log them, they own them.

 

For Clients: Help Us Help You

If you’re an owner or consultant, you can play a big role in keeping work on track. Here’s how:

 

• • Check in daily – Don’t let RFI emails sit unread. The sooner you respond, the sooner the job moves.

• • Assign a go-to contact – Make sure someone is accountable for providing clear answers.

• • Ask early – If you’re unsure about a detail, flag it before the team hits the site.

Communication builds trust, and trust builds projects.

 

We Don’t Wait. We Work.

GCCW doesn’t believe in standing around waiting for decisions. Our crews expect direction. Our clients expect results. And our job is to deliver both, on time, without excuses.

When it comes to RFIs, we move fast, speak clearly, and close the loop. That’s how we keep your job on schedule and your budget intact.