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Reasons to build Designing and implementing custom-built, proprietary WMS software isn't cheap. It requires resources and time in its development, as well as its ongoing maintenance and upgrades. Common arguments used to justify a build approach include: Off-the-shelf WMS solutions do not satisfy every need. WMS solutions today have a lot of features baked in. However, some businesses feel that their specialized needs require custom software. Vendor-based solutions are inflexible. Most off-the-shelf software does not allow deep modifications to its functionality. For some companies, this may imply either too many or too few functions, resulting in a decision to take a DIY approach. Compatibility. If a business relies on multiple software platforms that need to share data, a lack of compatibility can be a deal- breaker. Build-your-own solutions may offer an advantage in the ability to develop consistent integrations across the platforms offered by various partners. Reasons to buy It's probably safe to say that you didn't build your car, roof your house or make your own shoes. Then why embark on a project as big as making your own WMS software? Unless your business is so unique that you really need a proprietary WMS, diverting your attention, manpower and money to develop one is most likely a waste of valuable company resources. The following details six points to consider if you're thinking about buying WMS software. Lack of in-house technical expertise. This one should be obvious. If your company's software team doesn't have the experience or skills to build a WMS solution, you should leave the development and maintenance of this business-critical software to a third party with deep WMS domain expertise. A WMS that has the flexibility to support the changing needs of a business is worth every penny.

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