Make your practice dreams come true.
We have something no one else does.
DOCS is way more than a construction company. We have 30+ years of experience in the dental field. We use our ongoing knowledge of dental specialties, dental equipment and technology, dental office management, industry trends, and more to design offices that are PERFECT for your specific needs. Each client is different, and we never opt for a cookie-cutter solution.
Let's break it down.
With a traditional bid, the contractor submits a fixed price based on final documents, but if any issues arise later—whether it's design flaws, unforeseen conditions, or delays—you could be looking at extra costs, disputes, and project slowdowns. There’s no opportunity for the contractor to provide input during the design phase, which means problems may not show up until construction is already underway.
With Design-Build, the contractor is involved from the very beginning. Instead of waiting until the design is finalized, they work alongside the design team to help with scheduling, cost control, constructability, and value engineering. This approach helps prevent surprises, keeps the budget on track, and creates a more streamlined construction process.
So what?
In the end, Bid is a more reactive approach where problems are often discovered too late, while Design-Build is proactive, preventing costly issues before they happen. If you want a smoother, faster, and more cost-effective project, Design-Build is the way to go.
What's it like working with DOCS?
Working with an industry-specific design and project consultant, combined with a well-planned design/build approach, leads to the best results at the most efficient cost. We believe in strong communication and collaboration from the start.
Here are three key strategies to ensure a successful project:
Bringing in not just the primary builder but also key design-build or specialty contractors early in the process leads to better outcomes. Engaging the core team before finalizing schematic designs allows for valuable construction input and helps build a cohesive, well-aligned team.
Successful projects thrive on trust. A strong working relationship between the owner, designer, and builder leads to smoother decision-making and fewer complications. Choosing consistent partners—rather than selecting new teams for each project—fosters familiarity and efficiency, improving overall results.
Early involvement and a collaborative approach create an opportunity for exceptional communication. The best projects start with clear goals set by the owner, designer, builder, and key contractors as a team. Regular check-ins and shared workspaces (co-location) help keep expectations aligned throughout the process.