Choosing Business Application Types - 6 Aspects to Consider

Decades of IT strategy work show a recurring dilemma: choose a single integrated platform or assemble a best-of-breed application stack. Both approaches can work, but each carries trade-offs in control, flexibility, and complexity.

Integrated Platform Strategy

Also known as a monolithic enterprise suite or single-vendor ERP approach. This consolidates most functions into one vendor stack and emphasizes standardization and governance.

Modular / Best-of-Breed Strategy

Also known as composable architecture or app mesh strategy. It uses specialized tools for each function, connected through APIs and integration layers like Zapier or Make.

Six Aspects to Compare

| Aspect | Integrated Platform | Best-of-Breed / Modular | | --- | --- | --- | | Control | Centralized | Distributed | | Integration | Native | API-driven / middleware | | Flexibility | Low | High | | Complexity | Lower (single system) | Higher (integration required) | | Cost | High upfront | Lower per app, accumulates | | Innovation Speed | Slower | Faster |

When to Choose Which

• Integrated platforms suit firms that need standardization, centralized data, and strong governance.
• Modular stacks suit firms that want speed, adaptability, and best-in-class tools.

Nostics Digital helps leaders diagnose their operating model and make the right application strategy choice.