Our white paper provides a comprehensive analysis of one of the biggest decisions faced by sports organisations: build a custom tech solution or purchase an established one?

1. Introduction

1.1. Background

The sports industry, like many others, faces several critical decisions when it comes to implementing new software and technology. One of the most significant is the choice between building custom solutions or procuring technology from a proven provider.

National Governing Bodies of Sport (NGB) might be looking to switch systems for a number of reasons, such as moving away from outdated legacy systems, catering for increasing member expectations in the digital era, or as a means to become more operationally and fiscally efficient.

As a result, there are many factors to consider when deciding whether to ‘build’ or ‘buy’, including time-to-market, cost, customisation, access to expertise, scalability, integrations, and maintenance and support.

This choice can have a significant impact, affecting areas such as organisational effectiveness, growth, and the ability to navigate an increasingly complex technological landscape.

1.2. Purpose of the White Paper

This white paper aims to provide a thorough examination of the ‘build vs buy’ approach to software implementation within the sports industry. It seeks to equip NGBs with the necessary insights to make well-informed decisions by exploring the advantages, disadvantages, and key considerations associated with each approach.

By providing real-world case studies, best practices, and a tailored decision-making framework, it is designed to assist sports organisations in navigating this critical decision-making process effectively.

A comprehensive analysis of both the ‘build’ and ‘buy’ approaches empowers decision-makers to align their digital strategies with specific organisational goals and constraints. This white paper goes beyond surface-level comparisons and provides actionable insights and practical guidance designed to address the unique challenges faced by sports organisations of all shapes and sizes.

We hope that, ultimately, this white paper can serve as a valuable resource to help NGBs optimise their software implementation strategies, driving sustained growth and success for the entire sports sector.

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