Transitioning from a homegrown to a scalable secrets management strategy can mitigate hidden costs and security risks associated with DIY solutions. While creating internal tools for managing secrets like API keys may seem cost-effective initially, they often lead to significant maintenance debt and security vulnerabilities as projects grow. These DIY approaches can divert developer attention from core product development, increase operational strain, and pose challenges during compliance audits. A structured migration to a dedicated secrets management platform, such as Doppler, is recommended, involving steps like auditing existing secrets, selecting an appropriate platform, and executing a phased rollout. This transition allows engineering teams to focus on innovation and product delivery while ensuring robust security and compliance with industry standards, ultimately enhancing efficiency and reducing the risk of security breaches.