Technology decision · Executive guide
Build vs. buy finance software
A finance leader’s framework for choosing configuration, integration, focused custom software, or a new platform.
The underlying problem
Start with the operating reality.
The decision is not simply custom versus off-the-shelf. The real alternatives include changing the process, configuring an existing system, integrating tools, building a narrow layer, or replacing a platform.
Signals to investigate
When the workaround becomes infrastructure.
01
Vendor demos solve the generic case but not the critical exception
02
Implementation cost is driven by workarounds
03
The requirement creates strategic or financial differentiation
04
A narrow internal tool could preserve existing investments
A practical approach
Improve the process before prescribing technology.
01
Quantify the problem before comparing solutions
02
Distinguish commodity requirements from differentiating logic
03
Compare total operating cost, not license price alone
04
Use a prototype to test uncertain custom requirements
Questions worth answering
01
What must remain unique?
02
What should never be custom-built?
03
How reversible is the decision?
04