DOP 328: The Real Cost of Build Versus Buy Decisions

#328: The build versus buy decision isn’t as binary as most companies think. Every technology choice involves elements of both - you might use Linux (buy) but still configure and customize it extensively (build). The real question isn’t whether to build or buy, but finding the right balance between the two approaches based on your company’s resources, size, and unique requirements.

Companies often fall into the trap of thinking their processes are so unique that existing solutions won’t work, leading to unnecessary custom development. This not invented here syndrome is particularly common in large enterprises that mistake their size for complexity. In reality, most businesses face challenges that have already been solved by others. The key is recognizing when you truly need a custom solution versus when you can adapt existing tools.

The decision becomes more nuanced when considering factors like maintenance costs, compliance requirements, and long-term sustainability. Building internally requires ongoing resources for updates, security patches, and knowledge retention within your team. Meanwhile, buying from vendors shifts much of this burden but introduces dependencies and integration challenges. The conversation features insights from Alex Gusev from Uploadcare, along with perspectives from hosts Darin and Viktor on navigating these complex technology decisions.