Ditch SaaS
Why custom software beats rented solutions
I've spent years working with owner-operators of small-to-mid businesses, and one thing is clear: every business is different. Yet, when it comes to software, many of us try to shoehorn our unique operations into generic SaaS solutions. I've seen it time and time again - a business adopts a popular SaaS tool, only to find that it doesn't quite fit their needs.
The problem with SaaS is that it's a template you have to bend to fit. You might get 80% of the functionality you need, but that remaining 20% can be a major headache. Either you have to change your business to fit the software, or you have to find workarounds that add complexity and cost. I've worked with businesses that have had to hire entire teams just to manage their SaaS tools.
The Cost of SaaS
One of the biggest drawbacks of SaaS is the cost. Not just the upfront cost, but the ongoing cost of subscription fees, support, and maintenance. And let's not forget the cost of switching - when you realize that your SaaS tool isn't working for you, you have to start all over again. I've seen businesses spend tens of thousands of dollars on SaaS tools, only to end up back where they started.
With custom software, on the other hand, you have $0 ongoing cost once the initial development is complete. You own the software, and you can modify it to fit your changing needs without having to worry about subscription fees or vendor lock-in.
The Benefits of Custom Software
So why do I think every business needs custom software? For starters, it allows you to automate processes that are unique to your business. With SaaS, you're limited to the automation options that the vendor provides. But with custom software, you can automate anything you want, from simple workflows to complex business processes.
- Automation of unique business processes
- Customization to fit your specific needs
- No ongoing subscription fees
- No vendor lock-in
I've worked with a ~200-employee owner-operated business that had 16 departments and 14 live bases. We replaced 21 SaaS tools with custom software, and the result was a streamlined operation that saved time and money. We also implemented 25+ AI agents to automate tasks and improve efficiency.
The Future of Business Operations
As businesses continue to evolve, it's clear that custom software will play a major role in their operations. With the ability to automate unique processes, customize to fit specific needs, and avoid ongoing subscription fees, it's no wonder that more and more businesses are turning to custom software as a solution.
My takeaway is simple: if you want to take your business to the next level, you need custom software. It's not just a nice-to-have - it's a must-have. So don't settle for a generic SaaS solution that doesn't quite fit your needs. Invest in custom software that will help you achieve your goals and drive your business forward.