What is a RFI (Request for information), when it is initiated and what is the affect of RFI on Project, Design Consultant, Client and contractor?

Yes, it has its implications. Every deliverable from the contractor in the Project schedule is based on the information to be provided by the client. That information may be related to design, equipment, materials and/or approvals etc depending on the type of contract. Whenever there is an ambiguity in the information, an RFI is raised to document it. If the client does not clarify the ambiguity before the date of information provision in the schedule or agreed in the contract, the contractor will claim that all the delays that could possibly be generated from the delay in that information occurred due to it. If the activity lies on the critical path, it can lead to extension of time as well as monetary claim by the contractor.

Did I make my point clear ? 

RFI is a form of corespondent between the construction site and consultant or PMO -usually between contractor and consultant to ask for written acceptance or clarification about last updated design or information when found some variance between the given design and the site - and its a form within communication process  

RFI is a requet detailed form initiated for incoming project,but then it will be started upon an approval,a matter to take time.

The purpose of RFI is for the contractor to inform or make the client and consultants aware for any work that has been ready and it needs to be inspected by them. This work will proceed if they had given their approval.

RFI helps to sort the reality of a Project specification. some general specifications in Projects on repeated in many Project. 

Thank you Mr. Ahmed.

Does it affect in terms of progress, completion date, commercial and technical capability of design consultant and contractors?