In-House (or Hybrid) vs Purpose-Built Edtech Platforms: Pros and Cons

Higher education has entered a new era, shaped by the same expectations that define every digital experience. Students now expect seamless, personalised interactions from the moment they enquire, and institutions can no longer afford to be held back by outdated systems or fragmented processes. This practical guide will help you make sense of one of the most critical decisions in this landscape: whether to build, customise, or adopt a purpose-built platform.

Use it to understand the trade-offs between in-house development, generic systems with customisation, and purpose-built SaaS platforms. It will help leadership teams take a clear, informed approach to technology decisions that improve efficiency, reduce risk, and deliver modern student experiences.

‍

What you’ll be able to do:

• Understand the real costs, risks, and benefits of in-house development, hybrid models, and purpose-built SaaS.
• Identify the operational gaps holding back your student journey.
• Compare different approaches using clear, practical criteria.
• Build a strong case for change that aligns IT, admissions, and senior leadership.

‍

What’s inside:

• A side-by-side comparison of in-house, hybrid, and purpose-built platforms.
• Practical guidance to avoid common pitfalls in software investment.
• Expert insights into security, compliance, and scalability.
• A clear framework to help you choose the right approach for your institution.