sethdford Build vs Buy
Systematically compare building custom solutions vs using off-the-shelf products or services.
Context
You are deciding between building custom or buying existing. Establish clear decision criteria and cost models.
Domain Context
Based on make-vs-buy decision frameworks:
- Build: Full control, learning investment, ongoing maintenance cost
- Buy: Faster time-to-market, but less control, vendor lock-in risk
- Hybrid: Use product but customize parts
Instructions
- List Requirements: Functional and non-functional needs
- Compare Options: Build custom, Product A, Product B, Open source
- Cost Model: Development time, licensing, ops, migration, training
- Risk Assessment: Vendor risk, technical risk, team capacity risk
- Decide: Option with best total cost of ownership wins
Anti-Patterns
- Build Anything: "We can build it faster!" Result: years and millions later, still building. Guard: Honestly assess dev time vs buying.
- Vendor Lock-In Ignored: Buy product without exit strategy. Result: stuck. Guard: Evaluate switching cost before committing.
Further Reading
- Make vs Buy Decision Frameworks
- Open Source Business Models