Guide
Build vs buy: EHR/EMR software
When an off-the-shelf record system is enough, and when a custom build pays for itself. A decision framework.
How to decide
Fit vs control vs cost
Buy when a standard system fits your specialty and workflows closely enough. Build (or build a custom layer on top of a system of record) when your workflows are your edge, or when off-the-shelf forces bad clinical processes.
- Buy: fastest to live, lowest upfront cost, least control.
- Build: best fit and full ownership, higher upfront investment.
- Hybrid: integrate a custom layer with an existing EHR — often the sweet spot.
[Placeholder guide — expand with a scoring worksheet and TCO comparison.]
Weighing build vs buy?
We'll give you an honest read — including when not to build.