7 types of SaaS tools teams are replacing with Retool

The tech landscape is undergoing a significant shift as companies increasingly opt for custom-built software solutions instead of traditional SaaS tools, driven by advancements in AI that have reduced the complexity and cost of software development. According to Retool's 2026 Build vs. Buy Report, 35% of surveyed teams have already replaced at least one SaaS tool with a custom solution, and the trend is expected to grow. Common SaaS categories being replaced include workflow automation, internal admin tools, BI dashboards, CRM, form builders, project tracking, and customer support tools. This transition is accelerated by AI's ability to streamline development, the limitations of generic tools as organizations scale, and the rise of shadow IT, where senior managers build tools outside of IT oversight due to speed and customization needs. Retool facilitates this shift by offering a platform that allows teams to quickly develop secure, custom applications connected to live data, thus outperforming generic alternatives and enabling efficient, governed software development at scale.