Build or Buy? The Startup Guide to Web Dev Decisions

Posted by, Alen Jodge
05 January, 2021

Startups run on speed and strategy—and when it comes to launching your website, the build vs. buy debate can get heated. Do you custom-code from scratch with a dev team or go with a ready-made CMS or template? The answer isn’t universal, but the implications are huge.

Scalability or Speed? Cost or Control?

Building gives you complete flexibility and future-proofing, but it’s resource-intensive. Buying a template or using a platform like Webflow or WordPress lets you get to market fast and iterate quickly. Ask yourself: is your website a core part of your product, or is it a launchpad? That question alone can guide your decision.

The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.
Benjamin Franklin

The smart move? Validate your concept fast with a bought solution, then build when scale and customization become bottlenecks. You don’t have to pick a side forever—just pick what aligns with where you are right now.

Choosing to build or buy isn't just a technical decision—it’s a business move that affects your brand perception, maintenance load, and marketing agility. Start lean, stay smart, and evolve your site as your business matures. Remember, the goal isn’t to just go live—it’s to grow without regrets. A well-timed pivot from template to custom build could unlock better integrations, automation, or scalability. Treat your website as a living investment, not a one-time cost—because when your platform grows alongside your vision, it doesn’t just support your business, it helps drive it.

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