When a packaged ERP fits
- Your processes are common (accounting, purchasing, payroll).
- You want to be live in months, not years.
- You would rather not maintain core code.
When custom software fits
- A process is your competitive edge and no product models it.
- You have a team able to build and support it long term.
The middle path: a configurable, extensible platform
A platform that lets you add fields, forms, workflows and integrations through configuration, and extend with plugins where needed, can cover most custom requirements without a from-scratch build. The questions to ask are how much can be done without code, and whether extensions survive upgrades.
Costs people forget to count
- Ongoing maintenance and security patching of custom code.
- Integration between separate custom systems.
- Knowledge loss when the original developers move on.
Frequently asked questions
Is low-code the same as custom software?
No. Low-code platforms let you build on top of maintained building blocks, which reduces how much bespoke code you own.