When you’re launching a new website, e-shop, or internal tool, one of the first questions that comes up is:
Should we build something custom or go with a boxed (pre-built) solution?
Both options have their pros and cons — and choosing the right path can save you a lot of time, budget, and headaches in the long run.
What is a Boxed Web Solution?
A boxed solution (sometimes called “prepaid,” “template-based,” or platform-as-a-service) is a ready-to-go e-commerce platform like Shopify, Wix, Webflow, or in the Czech and Slovak market, Shoptet. These platforms offer pre-designed templates, built-in features, and a subscription-based pricing model that allows businesses to launch their online store quickly — often without writing a single line of code.
They’re ideal for entrepreneurs and small to mid-sized businesses who want to start selling online fast, with minimal technical complexity. With tools like Shoptet, users can manage products, payments, logistics, and basic marketing functions all from one dashboard — making it a popular option in Central Europe for launching simple e-commerce projects.
However, while boxed solutions are great for getting off the ground, they can become limiting as your business grows — especially when you need custom features, specific integrations, or unique UX flows that these platforms don’t natively support.
When to Choose a Boxed Solution:
- You need to launch fast
- Your budget is limited
- Your business model fits within common use cases
- You’re okay with standard templates and limited customization
Boxed platforms are a great way to test an idea quickly or get an MVP online. But as your business grows, you might hit limitations around flexibility, integrations, or scalability.
When Does a Custom Web Solution Make More Sense?
A custom web solution is crafted specifically around your business — not the other way around. Unlike template-based platforms, a custom build is designed to reflect your unique workflows, brand identity, user journeys, and long-term digital strategy.
But the real value of custom development becomes clear as your business starts to scale.
For larger or growing companies, it’s not just about having a nice-looking website or online store. It’s about building a platform that performs, that integrates seamlessly with internal systems, and that can support growth across markets, devices, and customer touchpoints.
Whether you’re planning to:
- expand into new geographic regions,
- offer personalized user experiences,
- launch new product lines or verticals,
- or build advanced features like configurators, B2B portals, loyalty systems, or marketplace layers
A custom solution gives you the freedom to innovate without limits.
It’s your foundation for building not just a website — but a flexible, scalable digital ecosystem that grows with your business.
Custom web development isn’t always the fastest or cheapest route at the start — but for companies looking to own their tech, scale efficiently, and reach broader audiences with tailored digital experiences, it’s an investment that pays off long-term.
Why Go Custom?
- Full design and feature flexibility
- Seamless integration with your tools (CRM, ERP, etc.)
- Scalable architecture built for long-term growth
- Unique UX tailored to your customers or internal teams
Things to Consider:
- Higher upfront investment
- Longer development timeline
- Requires a tech partner who understands your goals
A custom solution is ideal if you’re scaling, have specific operational needs, or want to stand out with a unique user experience.
So… Which One is Right for You?
- If you’re starting small, testing a product, or have simple requirements — start with a boxed solution.
- If you’re hitting limitations, want full control, or are planning long-term — go custom.
| Phase | Boxed Solution | Fully Built |
| Time to launch | 6 – 10 weeks | 3 – 6 months |
| Initial cost | € | €€€ |
| Core features | Must-haves | Fully tailored |
| Goal | Starting business, validate it | Long-term scaling |
At Younics, we help businesses explore both paths — and make the one that works for you. If a custom solution makes sense, we’ll help you shape it the right way. Explore the benefits of working with Younics.
