Businesses rely on software for efficiency, scalability, and competitive advantage. The key question is whether to build custom software or buy an off-the-shelf solution. Each approach has advantages, and the right choice depends on business needs, budget, and long-term strategy.
Off-the-Shelf
Buying off-the-shelf solutions is best for companies needing a quick, cost-effective solution with industry-standard features. There is usually a lower upfront cost, quicker deployment, regular updates, and vendor support. However, there is limited customization.
Custom Software
Building custom software can be tailored to your unique business needs where you have full control, but there are usually higher upfront costs, longer development time, and ongoing maintenance.
Hybrid Option
A hybrid approach might be the best option. Some businesses start with off-the-shelf solutions and add custom integrations. This approach could get you 80% of the way to your end goal, and the final 20% is focused on middleware to transfer pertinent data from system to system. Others customize open-source platforms instead of building from scratch, relying upon the solid foundation of an already existing solution.
Decision Criteria
Buy if . . .
You need a quick, affordable solution.
Your needs align with industry-standard tools.
You lack in-house development resources.
Build if . . .
You require a unique solution.
Long-term ROI justifies upfront costs.
You can maintain the solution from within your company.
Both if . . .
Off-the-shelf solutions cover 80% of what you need.
You want best-in-class solutions, but they don’t integrate well with each other.
You have a partner or internal resources to help navigate the process.
How to proceed?
The most important thing to do is to start the journey to a better solution.
If the current process involves many back-and-forth emails, endless calls and meetings, or paper clipboards, then start with a spreadsheet. It will help to organize the process in a way that is translatable to software. It forces you to focus on the most important data and creates a first-draft process.
If your process currently uses a spreadsheet or other software, make notes of where the bottlenecks are but also where the smooth points are. You’ll want your new solution to address both of those areas, regardless of whether you build, buy, or both.
At RowLogic, we strive to make technology transitions easier by creating apps that are intuitive to use and are easy to implement. We view ourselves as a partner with you in the process to create a new method, implement a new app, and fuel a happier team. Find out more about upgrading your apps and analytics at rowlogic.com.
