Every growing business eventually asks: should we buy ready-made software or have it built for us? Both have a place. Here is a simple way to decide.
Off-the-shelf software
Ready-made (packaged or SaaS) software is built once and sold to many businesses.
Advantages
- Quick to start, often the same day
- Lower upfront cost
- Tested by many users
Limitations
- You adapt your process to the software
- You pay for features you never use, and may still miss some you need
- Per-user or per-month fees grow with your team
- Limited control over changes and data
Custom software
Custom (bespoke) software is designed around your exact process.
Advantages
- Fits the way you work, including the steps that make you different
- Connects your existing systems
- No per-user licence fees in most cases
- You decide what changes, and when
Limitations
- Takes time to build
- Higher upfront investment
A quick decision checklist
Lean towards off-the-shelf if:
- Your process is standard (for example, regular GST billing)
- You need something running this week
- A product already covers 90% of what you need
Lean towards custom software if:
- Your process is unusual or is your competitive advantage
- You are re-typing data between several tools
- You need to work offline, on-site, or under specific government or lab formats
- Licence fees for your team are becoming expensive
The middle path
We often combine both. Our own products (such as Onyx Bills for GST billing, Onyx Stock for manufacturing inventory and OnyxPOS for restaurants) cover the standard parts, and we build custom modules or integrations for the rest.
What we build
Our custom software solutions include:
- Billing, inventory and stock systems
- Offline-capable Windows applications
- Point of sale and lab management software
- Imports, reports and integrations with existing systems
Frequently asked questions
Is custom software only for large companies?
No. Many of our custom systems run in small labs, shops and plants. A focused tool that solves one problem well can be very affordable.
Can custom software be changed later?
Yes. That is one of its main advantages. We maintain and extend the systems we build.
Not sure which way to go?
Tell us about your process and we will give you an honest recommendation, even if it is a ready-made product. Contact us.
