The decisions you're actually weighing
Honest comparisons for the decisions people businesses actually face when they want better software: who to hire, how to pay them, which tools to build on, and when custom beats off the shelf.
Fractional CTO vs agency vs freelancer vs embedded engineer: which do you need?
Product problem: hire a fractional CTO. Manual work between apps: hire someone who builds and runs the fix.
Read →CompareSoftware development retainer vs project vs subscription: which should you pay for?
One fixed job: pay per project. Ongoing tools that must keep working: a retainer or monthly plan.
Read →CompareZapier vs Make vs n8n vs custom code: which should you use?
Start on Zapier, Make or n8n. Move to custom code when a workflow is core, complex or always breaking.
Read →CompareOff the shelf vs custom software: should a small business buy or build?
Keep buying SaaS for standard jobs. Build custom only where your way of working is the point.
Read →CompareAI consultant vs AI implementation: which does your firm need?
Big firm, big decisions: hire a strategist. Small firm that knows its pain: pay for implementation.
Read →CompareShould I hire a developer or an agency (or an AI consultant)?
Hire in-house when there is a full-time job and someone to manage it. Otherwise, buy the work.
Read →CompareNo code vs custom code for internal tools: which should you use?
No-code for simple tools your team can own. Custom code when a tool is core, complex or client-facing.
Read →Cost guideFractional CTO vs embedded engineer: what each costs
Part-time executive or someone who builds and runs the thing? Prices in the US and UK, and who needs which.
Read →Not sure what to build first? Start with an ops audit.
Two weeks. We talk to your team, map your apps and count the hours lost, then give you a roadmap with the first three builds priced. $2,500 / £2,000, credited to your first month.