Buy vs Build Over Time

Overview
This post examines the classic buy-vs-build dilemma for software teams, arguing that neither choice is permanently correct because the surrounding context continuously evolves. It offers a framework for evaluating options based on current needs, vendor stability, integration, and cost, while acknowledging that future changes may render the original decision suboptimal.

Key Takeaways

• Decision quality depends on the current context, not an absolute right or wrong choice.
• Evaluate vendor products for features, price, longevity, and integration capabilities.
• Recognize opportunity cost: buying may lock you into unused capacity, building may miss future feature needs.
• Accept that decisions will be revisited as context changes; flexibility is crucial.
• Use a systematic checklist to reduce bias when comparing buy and build options.

Who Would Benefit

• Engineering managers and directors responsible for tool selection.
• CTOs and technical architects shaping technology strategy.
• Product owners evaluating trade-offs between external solutions and custom development.
• Software developers involved in implementation decisions.

Frameworks and Methodologies