Every engineering team eventually faces the same challenge: repetitive tasks, disconnected workflows, and expensive SaaS tools that solve only part of the problem. The default response is often to buy another subscription but that's not always the smartest choice.

In this session, I'll share lessons from building internal developer tools that automated engineering workflows, improved collaboration, and eliminated recurring costs. We'll explore a practical framework for deciding when to build instead of buy, how to identify high-impact opportunities, and how modern technologies including AI, can accelerate development without creating long-term maintenance headaches.

Rather than focusing on theory, this talk is built around real engineering decisions, trade-offs, and outcomes. Whether you're building React applications, supporting developer platforms, or leading engineering teams, you'll leave with a practical approach to creating internal tools that developers actually enjoy using and that businesses can justify maintaining.