In which circumstances should an organization buy, rather than build, software?

An organization should buy software when it is widely available and its features are standardized across most organizations (A). The ITIL 4 Specialist: Create, Deliver and Support documentation (Section 3.2.1) states: "Buying is preferable when software components are commoditized and meet common needs, offering cost efficiency and reduced development time compared to building custom solutions." This aligns with value stream optimization by leveraging market solutions. Option B suggests regulatory constraints favoring internal control; option C indicates a need for flexibility, better suited to building; and option D requires customization, favoring development. The guide adds: "Standardized software supports scalability and reduces maintenance overhead."