Build it vs. buy it – what’s the best way to integrate video calling in your workflows?

There’s no doubt that organizations today have the power of choice when it comes to their technology tools—especially when selecting a video conferencing solution. For industries that require secure, reliable, and scalable platforms, the decision on which tool to choose often comes down to two primary options: building a custom solution that can be integrated into existing tools using (a video calling SDK), or simply adopting an out-of-the-box video calling platform.  

I’ve spent much of my career in the video conferencing industry, working with both custom-built and off-the-shelf solutions, and I've seen how different strategies work for different organizations. What may be the perfect fit for a financial institution handling sensitive data might not be the best choice for a small business looking for ease and speed. And I’ve learned that it’s essential to know the difference between the two when deciding the best way to bring video into any workflow. 

When does ‘building it yourself’ make sense? 

For organizations facilitating sensitive conversations with external users via video call – such as in healthcare, finance, or government – the ability to tailor and control every aspect of a solution is critical. This is where building a custom solution using a video conferencing SDK can be beneficial. 

1. Customization for unique needs 
   Highly regulated industries often have specific compliance requirements or workflows that out-of-the-box solutions can’t meet. A custom-built platform allows for deep integration into existing systems, tailored interfaces, and the addition of specialized features. Whether it’s advanced encryption protocols or unique user interface demands, a build-it-yourself solution offers the flexibility to create exactly what’s needed. 
   
2. Control over data and infrastructure 
   Many organizations in regulated industries need strict control over where their data is stored and how it is processed. By building their own solution, they have full oversight of the infrastructure and data flow, reducing reliance on third-party vendors. This is particularly valuable for businesses that require geo-fenced data hosting, as they can manage their own security protocols and compliance measures. 
   
3. Long-term scalability 
   Organizations with complex growth plans may find a custom solution more adaptable to future needs. Using a video conferencing SDK allows them to scale their infrastructure as demand increases without being locked into the limitations of a pre-packaged product

However, this approach isn't without its challenges. Building a custom solution requires technical expertise, time, and ongoing maintenance. Organizations opting for this route must be prepared for the resource investment it demands. That said, for those with the right team and a clear vision, flexibility, and control can pay off substantially over time. 

When does an out-of-the-box solution work best? 

On the other hand, for many businesses, an out-of-the-box video conferencing platform is a better match. When organizations prioritize ease of use, cost efficiency, and speed of deployment, the simplicity of pre-built solutions can outweigh the need for customization and data control. 

1. Quick deployment and simplicity 
   For small and medium-sized businesses, or companies that don’t require extensive customization, an out-of-the-box platform can be deployed quickly and efficiently. These solutions typically come with pre-configured settings, easy setup, and immediate functionality, making them ideal for teams that need to start collaborating right away. 
   
   
2. Lower upfront costs 
   Off-the-shelf solutions often have lower initial costs since they don’t require the same level of development or infrastructure investment. For businesses operating with limited resources, this can be an advantage. Subscription-based pricing models allow companies to access robust video conferencing capabilities without the need for a large capital investment upfront.
    
3. Ongoing support and updates 
   One of the benefits of pre-built solutions is the support and maintenance provided by the vendor. Security patches, feature updates, and technical support are often included, meaning the organization doesn't have to worry about keeping the system up to date. For companies that lack the resources for ongoing maintenance, this is an advantage.

While these platforms are convenient, they do come with limitations, particularly in terms of customization and control. Businesses may find themselves constrained by the vendor’s feature roadmap or unable to fully integrate the platform into their own systems. 

Find the right solution for your organization 

Ultimately, the choice between a custom-built solution using a video conferencing SDK and an out-of-the-box platform comes down to what your organization values most. 

• If control, customization, and scalability are non-negotiable, especially for organizations in regulated sectors, then a custom-built solution is likely the better fit.  

• If your organization prioritizes ease of use, speed, and cost efficiency, an off-the-shelf solution may be the right choice.  

The decision should not be about which solution is "better" overall, but rather about which one aligns with your specific goals and constraints. There are robust video calling solutions to meet the needs of every type of organization, enabling them to build the future of collaboration in the way that best suits their needs. 

If you find yourself in the build-it-yourself camp, we recommend looking into Pexip’s Secure Video Calling SDK, a solution that can easy integration of video into any app or workflow – designed for organizations with strict security and compliance requirements.