While using TCO when purchasing a software solution can help you uncover hidden costs, it should not ever be the only metric you’re using. If TCO is the only driving force behind purchase decisions or project prioritization, then it’ll inevitably lead you to the cheapest option — often a much different thing than the right option. When deciding on a software solution or which projects to choose, make sure that TCO doesn’t dissuade you from selecting an item that could help you in the long run in ways and methodologies that don’t always show up on the budget sheet.