Should I build my own AI tools or buy SaaS?

I lean toward owning what you build, and I'll still recommend buying when an existing tool solves the problem well. Build when the workflow is specific to your business, ownership matters, and you can support the result. Buy when the common solution is good enough and the operating burden of a custom system would outweigh the benefit.

AI changes the cost of building. It doesn't remove integration, hosting, security, maintenance, or the need for someone responsible. Compare the complete cost and the exit path. If we build, I want the repository, data, deployment path, and operating documentation in the customer's hands wherever practical. Let's work through your situation.