Build v. Buy v. Vibe framework
Purpose
The purpose of Build v. Buy v. Vibe framework is to help organizations decide whether AI-generated development is appropriate for a given system, especially when foundational, regulated, or business-critical systems are involved.
Primary users
The primary users are both business and technology stakeholders, particularly in a CIO Advisory context, who need to balance innovation, enterprise AI policy, compliance, and strategic technology decisions.
Where it fits (process/stage/trigger)
This framework fits when teams are considering whether to use vibe coding, internal development, or purchased platforms for systems such as dashboards, automations, customer data workflows, financial records, compliance platforms, risk systems, financial close systems, CRMs, or systems requiring SOC 2, PCI DSS, or audit certification.
Key capabilities / workflow
The framework classifies systems by risk and criticality, separates low-risk use cases that can be vibed freely from cases requiring review before shipping, and directs foundational or regulated systems toward buying or properly building with provenance, architectural integrity, and accountability.
Inputs
Inputs are not specified; based on the provided information, the framework considers the type of system, whether regulators audit it, whether the business runs on it, whether it involves customer data, financial records, regulated workflows, or certification requirements such as SOC 2, PCI DSS, or audit certification.
Outputs / Deliverables
Outputs are not specified; based on the provided information, the expected deliverable is a build, buy, review, or vibe decision that supports enterprise AI policy and reduces the risk of shadow IT with a ChatGPT interface.
Value
The value of the framework is that it helps organizations innovate sustainably by distinguishing capability from permission, ensuring that AI-assisted development is encouraged where appropriate while protecting core systems that require compliance, accountability, and strategic control.
