The verdict in three sentences
A custom training booking platform for an education provider costs between EUR 28,000 and EUR 60,000 in 2026, with catalogue, enrolment, payment and accreditation compliance building blocks, delivered in 12 to 16 weeks. A SaaS LMS like Arlo or Administrate starts at EUR 100-400/month but imposes its data model and limits. Custom is justified when your catalogue, funding flows or brand demand an experience the SaaS can't deliver.
The price in 2026
Cost tracks session volume, funding modes handled and the level of administrative automation.
| Scope | Price EUR | Timeline | Functions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catalogue + enrolment | 28,000 - 37,000 | 12-13 wks | Sessions, enrolment, card payment |
| Standard training | 37,000 - 49,000 | 13-15 wks | + learner space, attendance, certificates |
| Advanced compliance | 49,000 - 60,000 | 15-16 wks | + compliance tracking, reporting, funder API |
Maintenance runs around EUR 350/month in 2026, hosting and regulatory updates included.
Custom vs SaaS LMS
Let's compare over 3 years for a provider handling 300 enrolments/year, SaaS LMS at EUR 250/month.
| Line item | Custom | SaaS LMS |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront investment | 45,000 EUR | 0 EUR |
| Annual cost | 4,200 EUR (maint.) | 3,000 EUR |
| 3-year cost | 57,600 EUR | 9,000 EUR |
| Per-enrolment fee | 0 EUR | often 0-2% |
| Brand customization | Total | Limited |
| Data ownership | Yes | No |
Over 3 years, the SaaS LMS stays far cheaper for small volume. Custom is only justified from high volume, an atypical workflow, or a strong drive to differentiate brand and learner experience. Below 300-400 enrolments/year, start with a SaaS.
Mini case study
Aoife runs an accredited training provider in Dublin with 1,200 enrolments/year and a catalogue of 40 courses. Her current SaaS LMS handles neither her blended pathways nor her brand, and costs EUR 4,800/year plus 3 hours/week of admin re-keying. She invests EUR 48,000 in a custom platform delivered in 15 weeks: enrolment, payment, attendance, automatic certificate and compliance report generation. Gain: 3 hours/week of admin saved (~EUR 7,000/year) and a 12% lift in catalogue conversion. ROI reached within 30 months.
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FAQ
Does the platform handle accreditation compliance?
Yes in the advanced scope: attendance, certificates, indicator tracking and compliance report export. This sharply reduces the burden during accreditation audits.
Can we integrate funding bodies?
An API to funding platforms is possible in the advanced scope. Budget EUR 4,000-8,000 of integration depending on flows and the funder's technical constraints.
At what volume does custom make sense?
Generally above 300-400 enrolments/year, or when your pathways and brand don't fit a SaaS LMS. Below that, a SaaS at EUR 100-400/month stays more rational.
Is online payment included?
Yes, card payment (Stripe) from the base scope. Instalment payment and corporate invoicing are added in the standard scope.
How long to deploy?
Expect 12 to 16 weeks. Automated compliance and funding integrations add 2-3 weeks.
Let's scope your project. Tell us your enrolment volume, funding modes and compliance needs: we frame a platform between EUR 28,000 and 60,000 delivered in 12-16 weeks. Detailed quote within 48 h. WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.
Mohamed Bah
Fondateur, Kolonell
Passionate about digital and entrepreneurship in Africa, Mohamed has been helping Sénégalese businesses with their digital transformation since 2020. Founder of Kolonell, he believes every SME deserves a professional and accessible online présence.
