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Engineering 6 min read
Custom software vs. SaaS: how to decide
A practical framework for deciding when to buy off-the-shelf software and when to build your own platform.
IA
InfraAlly Admin
August 10, 2026
Every growing company eventually faces this question. Here's the framework we walk clients through.
Buy when it's a commodity
Email, accounting, HR — if the process is the same for everyone, buy the best SaaS and move on.
Build when it's your advantage
If a workflow is what makes your business different, forcing it into generic software erodes that advantage. That's where custom software pays for itself.
Count the hidden costs
Per-seat pricing, integration glue, manual workarounds and data silos add up. We often find custom portals pay back within 12–18 months.
Start small
An MVP focused on the highest-value workflow, delivered in 6–10 weeks, proves the value before you commit further.