Choosing between packaged and custom software is rarely a simple price comparison. This guide starts by separating support processes, which are similar in every company, from differentiating processes that set you apart. Packaged software usually fits the former; custom software makes more sense for the latter.
We list seven decision criteria: fit ratio, integration needs, user count and growth, data ownership and location, rate of change, security and compliance requirements, and internal resources. We also explain total cost of ownership over several years, including the often-forgotten cost of manual work and double data entry.
Many organisations end up with a hybrid model: core systems such as ERP and accounting stay packaged, while custom portals, panels and integration layers are built around them. The guide closes with a template for a requirements document, the case for starting with a minimum viable product, and questions to ask a software company about source code ownership, documentation, testing, hosting and maintenance.
Talk to Racoun: we are based in Istanbul and work with brands across Türkiye. Message us on WhatsApp or email ekip@racoun.com.
