The short answer
AI coding agents let experienced developers build and change software several times faster, which makes custom tools worth reconsidering. The opportunity is to replace stacks of subscriptions and spreadsheets with software that fits your process. The risk is unreviewed code. Hire people who use agents with tests, code review and security checks, and make sure you own the code.
- Build-or-buy has shifted toward build for workflows specific to your business.
- Commodity tools such as email, accounting and payroll should still be bought.
- Insist on tests, code review and a handover document.
- Own the repository, hosting and domain.
What the agents do
Agents read the existing codebase, plan changes, write code, run tests and fix failures, with a developer directing and reviewing. They are best at well-defined tasks in well-organised projects. Sources: Claude Code, OpenAI Codex
The new build-or-buy test
Buy when the job is the same for every business: accounting, email, payroll. Consider building when the job is what makes you different, such as quoting, scheduling, client reporting or industry-specific records, and when you are paying for seats you barely use.
How to hire for it
Ask suppliers how they use AI, who reviews the code, what tests run before deployment, and how they handle security updates. A good answer is specific and boring.
Avoiding the mess
Start with one small tool. Keep it in your own repository. Require a short README and a list of dependencies. Schedule maintenance from day one.
Our verdict
This is a real opportunity for mid-sized and small firms. Treat it like any other investment: start small, own the asset, measure the return.
Questions people ask
Can a non-technical CEO use coding agents directly?
For prototypes, yes. For production systems, pair with an experienced developer.
Is AI-written code secure?
It can be, with the same reviews, tests and updates as any code. Unreviewed code is the risk.
How fast can a custom tool be built now?
Focused internal tools often take days to a few weeks.
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