Is off-the-shelf software always cheaper than custom software?

Usually cheaper upfront, but not always over the long term — ongoing subscription costs, per-seat licensing, and workarounds for missing features can add up, so it's worth comparing total cost of ownership over several years.

What if my needs change after building custom software?

Custom software can be updated and extended over time since you own it fully, though changes do require ongoing development work and budget, similar to any evolving system.

Can I start with off-the-shelf software and move to custom later?

Yes, and this is often a smart approach — using off-the-shelf tools to validate and stabilize your process before investing in custom software once you're confident about the exact requirements.

How do I know if my business's workflow is 'unique enough' to justify custom software?

If you find yourself building extensive workarounds, spreadsheets, or manual processes around the limitations of existing tools, that's often a sign your workflow may genuinely benefit from a custom solution.

Custom Software vs Off-the-Shelf Software — What's Right for Your Business

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