Custom Development of Enterprise Management Systems: When to Build Instead of Buying SaaS?

Ask Yourself 5 Questions First

1. Can existing SaaS cover 80% of your core processes?
2. Do you need deep integration with legacy internal systems?
3. Does your data require private (on-premise) deployment?
4. Will business processes change significantly in the next 2 years?
5. Is your team willing to adapt to SaaS standard processes?

If you answer "Yes/Not sure" to more than 3 of these, it's time to seriously evaluate custom development.

Typical Scenarios That Call for Custom Development

• Manufacturing production scheduling + quality inspection + warehouse coordination
• Cross-border multi-store order aggregation and profit accounting
• Tiered agent settlement and rebate systems
• Government/enterprise projects with compliance and audit requirements

The Right Way to Approach Custom Development

Don't build a one-size-fits-all, all-encompassing ERP at once. We recommend an MVP strategy:

1. First solve the 1–2 most painful processes
2. Deliver a usable version in 4–6 weeks
3. Iterate on phase two with real data

Technology Stack Recommendations

• Frontend: React / Next.js
• Backend: Node.js / Python
• Database: PostgreSQL
• Permissions: RBAC + operation audit logging

Cost and Timeline (Reference)

• MVP-level management system: ¥50,000 – ¥150,000, 4–8 weeks
• Medium-to-large systems: quoted iteratively by module

Need custom development? Feel free to submit your requirements, and we'll provide a phased implementation plan.