Comparison
Custom Software vs SaaS
Build exactly what you need vs buy and configure.
When you need software, you can build custom or buy an off-the-shelf SaaS product. Custom software is tailored to your exact processes; SaaS is faster and cheaper to start but less flexible. The right choice depends on how unique and core the process is to your business.
Side by side
Custom Software vs Off-the-shelf SaaS
| Custom Software | Off-the-shelf SaaS | |
|---|---|---|
| Time to start | Longer | Immediate |
| Upfront cost | Higher | Lower |
| Fits your exact process | ||
| Ownership & IP | ||
| Ongoing per-user fees | ||
| Customisation | Unlimited | Limited |
| Best for core/unique processes |
Choose custom when
- The process is core and unique to you
- No SaaS fits your workflow well
- You want to own the IP
- Per-user SaaS fees are adding up
Choose SaaS when
- The need is standard (email, accounting)
- You need it immediately
- Budget is limited upfront
- A product fits your process well
Our verdict
Buy SaaS for commodity needs; build custom for processes that are core, unique, or where SaaS costs/limits are holding you back. Often the answer is a mix.
FAQs
Common questions
Higher upfront, but it can be cheaper long-term by avoiding growing per-user SaaS fees and fitting your process exactly.
Tell us about your project
Let’s talk
Get free advice or book a callback — we’ll get back within one business day.