Frequently Asked Questions
What types of Excel projects do you typically handle?
We work on projects of all sizes, from small, time-sensitive tasks requiring fewer than eight hours to large, complex engagements that may extend beyond 100 hours. Regardless of the project’s scope, we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.
Do you offer a guarantee on your work?
Yes, we guarantee that all spreadsheets we create or modify will perform as specified. Should any issues arise, we will address and resolve them promptly, at no additional cost to you.
How do you structure your pricing?
Our pricing is typically based on an hourly rate, although for certain projects, we may offer a flat fee. Our hourly rates are competitive, though we are not the lowest option available. However, our extensive experience allows us to complete projects more efficiently, often resulting in a lower total cost compared to other providers.
What is your approach when beginning a new Excel project?
We begin by thoroughly understanding your business, objectives, and Excel-related challenges. This allows us to design a tailored solution that maximizes efficiency and reduces costs. We then provide a written estimate for your approval. Should the project require fewer hours than anticipated, you will only be billed for the actual time spent. If additional work is necessary, we will honor the original estimate.
Do you ever decline Excel projects?
Yes, we do. If we believe that the cost of a project exceeds the potential benefit to the client, or if Excel is not the ideal tool for the task, we may recommend an alternative solution. Additionally, if we determine that we cannot meet a client’s budget or timeline, we prefer to decline the project rather than overpromise and underdeliver.
In which industries do you specialize?
We support clients from SMBs to Fortune 500 companies, in multiple sectors including finance, real estate, construction, accounting, medical and insurance. Our combination of Excel expertise and business acumen allows us to effectively address diverse challenges across multiple industries.
How do you handle brief Excel-related inquiries?
We are happy to assist with simple Excel questions at no cost. If you need quick guidance, just visit our Contact Us page and submit your query. For minor adjustments to spreadsheets we’ve previously developed, we typically provide these updates at no charge or for a minimal fee, depending on the scope.
Can you leverage Excel work you’ve done for previous clients?
All solutions we create are client-owned and never shared. However, each project deepens our knowledge base, enabling us to handle similar challenges more efficiently and quickly.
Will I be able to modify the Excel spreadsheets you create?
Yes, clients have full ownership of the spreadsheets we develop and are free to modify them as needed. While more complex spreadsheets (such as those containing VBA code) may require specialized knowledge to edit, we always ensure that our designs are user-friendly and flexible. Should you require further modifications in the future, we can typically make them quickly and affordably.
Do you outsource any of your work?
No, all of our work is completed in-house. We do not use contractors or outsource any part of the project. You will always work directly with the person responsible for your project, ensuring clear communication and consistent quality.
Which versions of Excel do you support?
We have extensive experience with all versions of Excel on PC and MAC platforms.
Do you offer ongoing Excel support after a project is completed?
Absolutely. We provide ongoing support to ensure your solutions continue to meet your evolving needs. Whether it’s troubleshooting, adding new features, or answering questions, we are available to assist you even after the project is finished.
What sets you apart from other Excel consultants?
MS Excel Solutions builds advanced tools and automations that improve accuracy and efficiency. Our technical expertise and business acumen, combined with our customer-centric approach distinguishes us from other consultants. We are not just Excel specialists; we are problem solvers and strategic partners focused on delivering impactful, tailored solutions that add tangible value to your organization while saving you time and money.
Do you work with clients outside of California?
Yes, we serve clients across the United States and internationally. We are able to efficiently work with clients regardless of their location.
How do you handle situations where an Excel project takes longer than expected?
If a project requires more time than originally estimated, we will promptly communicate with you to explain the reason for the delay. We remain committed to delivering high-quality results and will work with you to adjust timelines or deliverables if needed, while adhering to the agreed-upon budget.
How do you ensure data security during an Excel project?
We take data security very seriously. All client data is handled with the utmost confidentiality, and we follow industry best practices to ensure your information remains secure.
Do you work with clients who require automations or custom solutions in Excel?
Absolutely. We frequently create custom automation solutions, including VBA macros, user-defined functions, and other advanced Excel tools that save time, money, and increase efficiency. Whether you need to automate repetitive tasks, create custom reports, or design interactive dashboards, we can build a tailored solution to meet your needs.
What is your typical Excel project timeline?
Project timelines vary depending on the complexity and scope of the work. For small projects, we can typically deliver results within a few days. Larger, more complex engagements may take several weeks. After understanding the project requirements, we will provide you with a clear timeline and keep you informed of progress along the way.
Can you help improve or audit existing Excel models?
Yes. We review existing spreadsheets to identify inefficiencies, errors, or opportunities for automation. Our audits provide actionable recommendations to improve accuracy, reduce manual work, and enhance decision-making.
