Answers
Should you build or buy software?
In short
Build software when it is core to differentiation, when the off-the-shelf option forces material workarounds, and when you have the operational maturity to run software in production. Buy in every other case.
Short answer
Build software when it is core to differentiation, when the off-the-shelf option forces material workarounds, and when you have the operational maturity to run software in production. Buy in every other case.
What this actually means in practice
A clean rule: don't build anything you wouldn't be proud to demo at a conference. The hidden cost of build isn't the build — it's the ten years of run. Buy commodity; build differentiation.
The most common pitfall
Building bespoke for a process that should be killed instead of automated.
What to do next
Map every system on differentiation × workaround pain; build only top-right.
Frequently asked questions
Does Forth Systems help with this?
Yes — Forth Systems works with banks, payment institutions, insurers and infrastructure operators on exactly this kind of work. Engagements start with a fixed-scope assessment so you see the shape before committing.
How experienced is the team?
Engagements are staffed by named, UK-based senior engineers — not a rotating offshore pool. References from the second line of comparable clients are available on request.
Where are you based?
Edinburgh-based, delivering UK-wide with onsite presence in London and across Scotland as required.
How fast can we start?
Most engagements start within 2-4 weeks of a signed SoW, faster where an existing supplier framework is in place.