Custom software vs SaaS: when it's worth developing your own tool

Almost every growing company reaches the same point: standard SaaS tools start falling short. Processes get complicated, workarounds pile up.

The real cost of a SaaS that "almost" fits

• Weekly hours of manual tasks
• Data in parallel spreadsheets
• Hacky integrations between multiple tools
• Combined licenses costing more than custom development

Companies that switch usually pay €2,000-€8,000/month in combined SaaS licenses plus 20-40 hours/week of manual work.

When custom software makes sense

1. Your process is your competitive advantage
2. You need to integrate multiple data sources
3. Volume justifies investment
4. Standard tools don't cover your sector
5. You need full data ownership

Real development costs

• Simple tool: €15,000 – €30,000
• Medium platform: €30,000 – €70,000
• Complex ERP: €70,000 – €150,000+

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