Should You Build or Buy LLM Observability?

The decision to either build or buy LLM observability tools hinges on a balance between customization needs and resource availability. Buying an observability solution like Helicone offers advantages such as zero maintenance, built-in features, and rapid deployment, but it may lack the flexibility of custom-built solutions and incurs subscription costs. Building an observability system provides customization tailored to specific requirements but demands significant time, resources, and infrastructure management. For teams with unique compliance requirements or existing robust monitoring systems, building might be viable, but the hidden costs and need for dedicated maintenance must be considered. The article emphasizes that LLM observability is essential for monitoring, debugging, and improving AI applications, and suggests that teams begin with existing tools to evaluate their needs before committing to building their own systems.