RBC Capital Markets launches calculator to weigh building versus buying software
RBC Capital Markets has introduced an interactive calculator that lets firms compare the total cost of developing in-house software with the expense of purchasing existing solutions.
Analysts at RBC Capital Markets have built a web-based calculator to help companies assess whether to develop their own software or continue paying for commercial packages. By entering the price of a subscription, the model adds projected expenses for coding, ongoing maintenance, security mitigation, and potential reliability gaps. The results indicate that, in most cases, the total outlay for a bespoke solution exceeds the cost of buying, particularly for core business applications such as payroll, customer-record systems, or office suites.
Simpler, non-essential tools might justify a build-your-own approach, but the hidden expense of employing top AI talent often outweighs any savings. The calculator aims to guide both corporate decision-makers and investors in evaluating software strategy choices.
Why it matters
Understanding the true cost of custom software helps businesses avoid costly mis-investments.
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