AI-powered development tools have dramatically reduced software building costs to nearly zero, but enterprise governance models haven't adapted to this market shift.

VentureBeat AI · April 16, 2026

AI Summary

•AI-assisted development and low-code platforms have cut custom software development from weeks/months and six-figure costs to just 1-2 days for prototypes.
•Retool's 2026 Build vs. Buy Shift Report surveyed 817 builders and found a structural shift in software development economics favoring in-house building.
•Traditional SaaS pricing models remain unchanged despite the cost curve shift, still charging per-seat for generic software that can now be built internally.
•Non-technical roles like operations leads can now build their own software, disrupting the traditional buy-vs-build decision that previously favored purchasing off-the-shelf solutions.

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