Origami vs Custom SPFx Development
Choosing the Right Approach for Your SharePoint Intranet
Introduction
Organizations looking to modernize SharePoint intranets often evaluate two paths:
- Building custom SharePoint Framework (SPFx) solutions, or
- Using a pre-built intranet solution like Origami.
Both approaches are valid. The right choice depends on factors such as timeline, budget, governance requirements, and long-term maintenance capacity.
This page outlines the differences to help teams make an informed decision.
What custom SPFx development involves
- Requirements gathering and design
- Custom React / TypeScript development
- Testing across browsers, devices, and tenants
- Deployment and packaging
- Ongoing maintenance as Microsoft 365 evolves
Custom development offers maximum flexibility, but also introduces longer timelines and ongoing ownership responsibilities.
Deployment & time to value
Origami
- Installed directly into the tenant
- Ready-to-use intranet templates and web parts
- Typical initial install: minutes
- Typical launch: days to weeks
Custom SPFx development
- Requires development, testing, and deployment cycles
- Timeline varies based on scope and resourcing
- Initial rollout often measured in months or up to a year
Cost & predictability
Origami
- Known upfront licensing cost
- Optional renewal for updates and support
- Predictable long-term cost profile
Custom SPFx
- Development costs (internal or vendor)
- Ongoing maintenance and enhancement costs
- Cost varies with staff turnover and Microsoft platform changes
Maintenance & long-term ownership
Origami
- Updates provided through maintained packages
- Compatibility updates aligned with Microsoft 365 changes
- No internal development required to stay current
Custom SPFx
- Maintain code
- Address breaking changes
- Update dependencies
- Re-test after platform updates
Governance & security
Origami
- Runs entirely inside the Microsoft 365 tenant
- Uses native SharePoint permissions and authentication
- No telemetry or external data transmission
- Supports regulated environments, including GCC High
Custom SPFx
- Development practices
- Dependency management
- Deployment controls
- Requires internal governance processes
Scope & flexibility
Custom SPFx excels when:
- Highly specialized or unique functionality is required
- The solution goes beyond typical intranet use cases
- There is a long-term roadmap with dedicated developers
Origami excels when:
- The goal is a modern intranet experience
- Requirements align with common intranet patterns
- Consistency across departments matters
Many organizations combine both approaches.
Origami for intranet structure, layout, and core pages + Custom SPFx for specialized components.
Origami is often a strong fit
- Want fast intranet rollout
- Prefer predictable cost and maintenance
- Lack dedicated SharePoint developers
- Operate in regulated environments
Custom SPFx is often chosen
- Have experienced developers
- Require bespoke functionality
- Accept ongoing maintenance responsibility
Frequently asked questions
Is Origami built with SPFx?
Yes. Origami is built using Microsoft’s SharePoint Framework and follows the same deployment and security model.
Can Origami replace all custom development?
No. Origami addresses common intranet needs. Custom SPFx development remains appropriate for specialized requirements.
Can Origami and custom SPFx coexist?
Yes. Origami is designed to work alongside custom SPFx solutions within the same tenant.