Should a builder buy off-the-shelf software or build custom?
If a packaged product already fits how you work, use it. Custom software is worth exploring when the gaps are specific to your business, such as the same job details typed into several places, approvals scattered across messages, or a process your crews bend around the software to follow.
What are the trade-offs of off-the-shelf software?
Packaged products are ready sooner and are supported by the vendor. In return you accept their workflow, their roadmap and their pricing model. Costs often depend on users, jobs or modules, so check how the price changes as your team grows.
What are the trade-offs of custom software?
A custom system is shaped around your process and can be built so you own the code and data. It takes scoping and build time, and it has running costs such as hosting, integration access and maintenance. Those costs and who pays for them belong in the build agreement.
How do I check whether custom is worth it for my business?
Choose one task, follow a real job through it and list every tool and re-entry step involved. Compare that with what your current software could do. A Workflow Audit is a way to do that with someone outside the business.
Do I have to give up Xero, MYOB or my current tools?
Not necessarily. Whether a custom system can connect to your accounting or job software depends on the access, exports and licence terms those tools offer. Integrations are reviewed during scoping, and any third-party fees are identified before you commit.