Custom software isn't always the best option. And off-the-shelf software doesn't always solve the problem.
Which one is your case? I use one simple question to decide, and I'll tell you what it is further down.
When I stick with off-the-shelf
When the problem is generic, like accounting, email or task management. When there's already a good option on the market at a fair price. When the team has no very specific needs. And when customizing would cost more than the license.
When it's worth building
When your process is unique and it's what sets you apart from the competition. When no off-the-shelf software solves it without hacks.
Also when you need to integrate with systems that have no API, or when your data and transaction volume calls for specific performance. And when you want to own what gets built.
The question that decides it
"If I adapt my process to the software, do I lose efficiency or my edge?"
If the answer is yes, go custom. If it's no, go off-the-shelf.
The mistake in the middle
Do you know the worst case? Buying off-the-shelf software and spending a fortune customizing it. You end up locked in to the vendor, paying for something that is never fully yours.
So custom is worth it when the process is strategic. For everything else, use what already exists.
And you, are you adapting your process to the software, or the software to your process?
