RIA Tech Stack
Interactive tools built to help independence-minded advisors gain clarity and execute
Overview
This tool helps you compare custody and tech-stack options using a single decision framework — before you fall in love with a vendor pitch. You’ll get a stack tier recommendation, the right build order, and a simple rollout plan designed to reduce rework and tool sprawl.
- Avoid buying reporting/billing too early
- Reduce manual work and re-keying
- Build workflows that survive growth
Common scenarios
Solo advisor launching quickly
You want speed to launch, a clean onboarding flow, and minimal integrations — without locking yourself into the wrong stack.
Team scaling past chaos
You need consistent workflows, role-based handoffs, and fewer bottlenecks as AUM and client volume grow.
Complex book, higher stakes
You have multi-entity billing, alternatives, held-away assets, or specialized workflows — integration risk is now your biggest enemy.
Inputs explained
- How complex your stack needs to be
- How much control you should own vs outsource
- The safest order to implement tools to avoid rework
How to interpret your results
- Step 1: Sanity check assumptions — especially complexity and support needs
- Step 2: Follow the priority order — it’s designed to avoid rework
- Step 3: Use the rollout plan to build the stack in the right sequence
- Step 4: Browse the library to validate options before picking vendors
Common mistakes
Buying reporting/billing tools before confirming custody + service model
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Letting integrations become “the plan” instead of the workflow
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Allowing tool sprawl (paying for features you don’t use)
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Underestimating data cleanup and migration time
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Choosing “all-in-one” without understanding lock-in and exit costs
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FAQ
Do you recommend specific custodians or vendors?
No. This tool is vendor-neutral. It helps you decide what you need and what order to build it in.
Should I pick custody first or tech first?
Start with your service model and constraints, then custody direction, then CRM/onboarding workflows. Reporting and billing come after.
What if I’m a solo advisor but want enterprise polish?
That’s common. You can still run a lean stack — just prioritize client experience standards and onboarding consistency.
I have complex needs. What should I do first?
Require a tested end-to-end workflow before committing. Complex books fail most often at integration points and edge-case billing.
Is this advice?
No. This is educational and operational guidance. Confirm compliance and custody decisions with qualified professionals.
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