Direct answer
Off-the-shelf software is faster and cheaper to start. Custom software fits your process but takes longer. Many organisations combine both.
Compare the options
- Off-the-shelf: faster to start, lower upfront cost and partial workflow fit
- Custom: slower to start, higher upfront cost and stronger workflow fit
- Off-the-shelf integration depends on available connectors
- Custom integration is designed around your systems
- Vendor software follows the vendor roadmap; custom ownership must be agreed
Questions to decide
Does a product cover 80 percent of what you need? Are your rules a real advantage? What will you do with the other 20 percent? A hybrid approach is common.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the short answer?
Buy when a product fits most of your workflow, and build when your process is distinct or you need integration and control. A hybrid is common.
What should a business do next?
List must-have workflows, test products against them, and ask for a custom estimate for the gaps.