FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is EXXCEL Project Management?

EXXCEL Project Management is a veteran-owned design-build construction firm based in Columbus, Ohio, with more than 35 years of experience delivering industrial, manufacturing, warehouse, and commercial facilities across the Midwest and beyond. We serve developers, business owners, commercial real estate brokers, manufacturers, and architects who need a reliable, relationship-driven construction partner.

What types of projects does EXXCEL build?

EXXCEL specializes in industrial, manufacturing, warehouse, distribution, cold storage, and commercial construction. We also deliver office facilities, multi-use commercial buildings, and tenant improvements. Our primary strength is complex, schedule-driven projects where design-build's speed and integration matter most.

Is EXXCEL a veteran-owned business?

Yes. EXXCEL is a proud veteran-owned design-build firm. That background shapes how we operate — with discipline, accountability, and a commitment to doing things right the first time.

What is design-build construction?

Design-build is a project delivery method where a single firm , EXXCEL, handles both the design and the construction under one contract. Unlike traditional design-bid-build, where the owner hires an architect and a contractor separately, design-build eliminates the gap between those two teams. The result is faster project delivery, fewer change orders, better cost control, and a single point of accountability for the owner.

What is the difference between design-build and design-bid-build?

In design-bid-build, the design is completed first, then the project is put out for competitive bids. The owner manages two separate contracts and two separate teams. In design-build, one firm manages both design and construction simultaneously, which compresses the schedule, reduces coordination failures, and keeps the budget tighter from day one. EXXCEL is a design-build contractor, not a design-bid-build general contractor.

Why is design-build better for industrial and manufacturing construction?

Industrial and manufacturing projects have specialized requirements; floor load tolerances, clear heights, dock configurations, power infrastructure, process flow, operational continuity. Design-build allows EXXCEL to involve estimators and construction experts during the design phase, which means those factors are solved before construction begins, not discovered during it. This is where design-build saves the most money and time.

What is preconstruction, and why does it matter?

Preconstruction is the phase before construction begins where EXXCEL's team, designers, estimators, and project managers, work together to define scope, validate budget, and identify risks. It's where the most valuable work happens. Decisions made in preconstruction have a far greater impact on cost and schedule than decisions made during construction. Engaging EXXCEL early in preconstruction is one of the most financially sound moves a developer or business owner can make.

What is value engineering?

Value engineering (VE) is a systematic process of analyzing a project's components, structure, materials, systems, and site, to find ways to reduce cost without reducing function or quality. EXXCEL's estimators and designers work together during preconstruction to identify value engineering opportunities before they become change orders. Common VE focus areas include structural systems, site work, roofing, and mechanical/electrical systems.

When should I bring EXXCEL into my project?

As early as possible. The earlier EXXCEL is involved, the more value we can add. Owners who engage us before drawings are complete benefit the most from value engineering, schedule compression, and budget accuracy. If you're considering a new facility, expansion, or renovation, even at the "back of the napkin" stage, that's the right time to talk to us.

What is EXXCEL's typical project size?

We work on projects ranging from smaller tenant improvements to multi-million-dollar ground-up industrial and manufacturing facilities. Our sweet spot is mid-to-large commercial and industrial projects where our preconstruction expertise and design-build delivery model create the most measurable value.

Will construction disrupt my operations?

We plan construction phasing, site logistics, and work schedules around your operations, not around our convenience. If you're expanding an active facility, our team builds disruption mitigation directly into the project plan from the preconstruction phase forward.

Does EXXCEL work with commercial real estate brokers?

Yes and we consider brokers among our most valued partners. EXXCEL regularly collaborates with brokerage firms including CBRE, Colliers, NAI Ohio Equities, and independents across the Columbus MSA and broader Midwest. If you're a broker with a client who has a facility need, we can support you from initial feasibility through project delivery. Our goal is to help your deals close on time and protect your reputation in the process.

Does EXXCEL work with architects?

Yes. EXXCEL partners with architectural firms on design-build projects and values the design integrity that strong architectural partners bring. We are a collaborative team, not a firm that overrides design intent for cost reduction. Our value engineering process is additive, finding savings while preserving function and quality.

Why shouldn't I just go with the lowest bid?

The lowest bid rarely represents the lowest cost. Low-bid contractors frequently compensate through change orders, scope exclusions, material substitutions, and schedule extensions. EXXCEL's approach is to establish an accurate budget upfront through preconstruction and value engineering so there are no surprises during construction. Our repeat client rate reflects the difference between a contractor who delivers on a number and one who simply wins it.

How do I know if EXXCEL is the right fit for my project?

If you value a single point of accountability, a contractor who gets involved before the design is locked, transparent budgeting, and a team that treats your project like a long-term relationship rather than a transaction, then EXXCEL is likely the right fit. If your selection process will be determined solely by lowest bid, we will respectfully tell you that we are not the right partner for that process. We believe that transparency upfront saves everyone time.