Should I use ready-made solutions or build everything from scratch?

This is a question most companies face when planning software development. The choice between an off-the-shelf solution and building from scratch has a significant impact on budget, deployment time, and system flexibility.

Off-the-shelf solutions (e.g., no-code platforms, open-source tools, or SaaS) are attractive due to fast deployment and low initial cost. They are ideal for testing an idea, launching an MVP, or automating simple business processes. Their downside is limited customization for specific company needs and dependency on an external provider.

On the other hand, building from scratch provides full control over structure, business logic, and integrations. It allows you to create exactly the system you need—without compromises. The trade-off is higher initial cost and longer development time, but in the long term, a custom solution is more scalable and secure.

In practice, the best results often come from a hybrid approach. You can base the project on proven open-source components or ready-made modules (e.g., authentication, payments, CMS) while creating the key elements individually. This balances cost, speed, and flexibility.

At Nugosoft, we often use this model—allowing our clients to receive a tailored solution built on solid technological foundations without the excessive cost of developing everything from scratch.

In summary: if you want a fast start and simplicity—choose an off-the-shelf tool. If uniqueness, scalability, and security are the priority—it’s worth investing in a custom system. Ideally, combining both worlds in one well-thought-out solution is the optimal approach.