Ask most people how they feel about DIY and you’ll get a mixed response, some people love the challenge and the sense of achievement when they see the IKEA wardrobes free-standing… finally. Others take the view of why spend time doing it yourself when you can get someone else do it, and probably to a higher standard.

There is a similar view taken in regard to business intelligence solutions. Some users prefer to deploy a complete solution that is purchased in one go, deployed by an expert and only involves a short training course while others prefer to build their own bespoke solution.

The key benefit of DIY when it comes to computer software is that you can build the programme to meet your own needs. For example, if you want to prepare for new government initiatives before they are introduced, or you have your own internal targets to meet treatment times, you can use an existing platform and build onto it, tailoring it to provide the exact functionality you need.

The advantage of this approach is that you have the flexibility to meet specific needs, coupled with the security of having a centrally managed solution, with controlled access for designated staff, be that in situ or remotely.

Like any DIY, building your own software solution requires time and patience but before you go straight to the full package, make sure it does have everything you’re looking for and if not, remember you don’t need to settle for less than you need, because there are other options out there.