Buy, Not Build

From Evolt.org

Based on http://lists.evolt.org/theforumarchive/Week-of-Mon-20030811/000223.html

Developing new applications/components from scratch is dim as there are lots of good ones out there with years of development/testing time in them which do most of the things we want to do.

Where possible we will import core 80-90% of functionality from already existing mature applications and components and spend our limited development time in adding the last 10-20% of customisation.

Obviously "buy" means "get from elsewhere" rather than necessarily "pay money for" although that's not explicitly precluded if there's no alternative.

Erika responds:

Everything about computers is part bought, part built. evolt.org has always had a build component, from our old CMS to majorgumbo to our front-ends to the tip harvester. In the old days, building gave a sense of community pride and accomplishment.

Even when "buying" there is significant building going on as components are customized and systems designed.

Ultimately, I think there is more at hand here than time. There is our purpose, our vision, our community... I'm not negating the idea of "buy not build" but I am saying that every scenario is different, and if we have an articulated vision, the path on any one issue should be clearer. Also, when someone is invested in a vision, they are more likely to find time to work on it.