A multitude of factors encompass the decision to make vs. buy in the technological arena. The TCO is a primary factor, as are supplier capability and past performance, quality, and risk. Considerations that favor buying technology are suppliers’ research and specialized know-how or supplier after-sale service and support, maintenance, and upgrades. Considerations that favor a decision to make a technological solution to meet a client or IT need are protection of Postal Service intellectual property, or special needs for software, hardware, parts, or other components.
