I am curious at what point when working with a client on a solution and you find something that meets all of their goals.
When you decide to let them buy the solution that is already out there or to build them an application?
To over simplify…build what is the core value proposition of the business, and buy the rest.
In other words, if you can buy that which is considered to be your core value prop, then this is probably not a high value business. If you must build it, then it is worthy of others paying for it and thus an opportunity.
As a small business consultation and helping folks modernize their operations, I find that I can normally find a solution that will do 90% of what a customer is looking for but that last 10% is often the most important part to them. Normally with a few changes in their process we can get over that last 10% but I will admit there are times I feel like I am asking the client to settle.