The build vs buy calculation for enterprise software is changing fast.

Customized software used to only be an option for large companies able to hire teams or large consultancies. But the high costs and complexity led to the rise of vertical SaaS.

But the dirty secret of vertical SaaS is that despite a platform being “tailor-made” for a specific industry, no two companies in the same industry have identical processes.

As a result, these platforms still require painful implementations followed by the arduous workflow transformation of a resistant workforce. Without a strong enough forcing function, many deployments fail.

But the economics are changing fast. The cost of software development has collapsed, making bespoke solutions accessible to mid-market companies, either by building in-house or engaging smaller, more nimble consultancies, like Robot Heart. And while you still have ongoing maintenance costs, these can actually decrease over time.

Companies can both save money and get custom solutions purpose-built to support existing workflows, simplifying painful implementations and arduous workflow transformations.

SaaS will still make sense for certain commoditized workflows, but any complexity will benefit from a custom, purpose built solution.