Build or Buy?: Optimizing Your Betting Operation
Switzerland – May 22, 2025 | www.zonadeazar.com The sports betting industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with a projected 12% increase by the end of 2032. This dynamism is evident in both emerging markets, like Brazil, and mature markets where operators are constantly seeking to optimize their operations. In this context, a fundamental strategic question arises for all types of operators: should they develop technological solutions in-house or rely on specialized providers?
The Challenge Across Different Operator Profiles
This decision is critical for various profiles: new operators aiming to establish themselves, international brands expanding into emerging markets, and established operators (including state lotteries) seeking to improve competitiveness or operational efficiency. For newcomers, building an internal platform offers total control but involves significant time and cost challenges. Established operators, meanwhile, must maintain their competitive edge in an increasingly demanding technological environment.
International Expansion and Local Adaptation
International operators entering new regions must consider how to replicate past success in different contexts. Outsourcing offers a fast-track solution, enabling more flexible adaptation and leveraging local expertise. Outsourcing certain components can help mitigate regulatory risks and support smoother compliance. It is no secret that outsourcing models have proven to be effective tools allowing new operators to gain ground quickly.
The Challenge of Continuous Innovation
Established operators also face specific challenges: the need for ongoing innovation, cost optimization, and improved efficiency are critical to maintaining their competitive position. These operators must assess whether their current systems can keep up with the latest tech innovations and whether in-house development investments justify the expected returns.
Finding the Right Balance
It’s important to note this is not a binary choice between full in-house or full outsourcing. No operator handles every part of their operation internally; all rely to some extent on third-party providers. The key is deciding which components—such as player management platforms, betting engines, risk management systems, or sportsbook interfaces—should be outsourced to enhance competitiveness.
As the industry matures, a growing trend toward outsourcing is expected. This is already common in well-established tech sectors, and the sports betting industry is likely to follow suit. Operators continue to seek high-quality, efficient solutions to maintain their edge.
The Hybrid Approach
360 turnkey platforms like ORAKO represent an effective hybrid solution for all operator profiles. They offer service customization with the reliability of an external provider. ORAKO not only covers the entire value chain through a single provider—Sportradar—significantly reducing operational costs and speeding up time-to-market, but also enables advanced personalization and continuous integration of innovations, creating a unique ecosystem. Additionally, its flexible architecture allows integration with third-party solutions or the operator’s own services.
The Road Ahead
In conclusion, the challenge for all operators—whether newcomers, expanding international brands, or established players looking to optimize operations—is to find the right mix between internal development and outsourcing. This balanced approach is essential to maximizing competitiveness and adaptability in a constantly evolving market. Discovering this optimal strategy could be key to ensuring a successful future in the dynamic world of sports betting.
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Edited by: @_fonta
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