Up to now, individuals had three approaches to manage their savings:

"Do It Yourself" (DIY),

"Do It For Me" (DIFM), and

"Do It With Me" (DIWM).

I’m proposing to add a 4th – “Do It With Software” (DIWS).

Do It Yourself (DIY): The DIY approach is characterized by individuals taking full control of their financial decisions and managing their investments independently. DIY investors enjoy greater autonomy, savings on advisor fees, and the satisfaction of being hands-on. However, historically it also requires a significant time commitment, ongoing learning, and the ability to handle emotional responses to market fluctuations.

Do It For Me (DIFM): The DIFM approach involves delegating investment decisions and management to an advisor. This is for those who prefer a hands-off approach but still desire professional expertise. Investors rely on an advisor to construct and manage a portfolio. DIFM services provide convenience, however, this convenience comes with ongoing annual management fees, which can significantly reduce overall returns. DIFM investors also face the challenge of finding a reliable advisor in the first place.

Do It With Me (DIWM): The DIWM approach represents a middle ground between DIY and DIFM. Investors collaborate with an advisor or use a system that allows for partial self-management. DIWM investors benefit from professional guidance while retaining some level of control and involvement. This approach suits individuals who seek to learn more about investing or want a customized investment strategy without shouldering the entire burden of financial management.

Do it With Software (DIWS): This nascent approach allows individuals to recognize the benefits of both DIY and DIWM. It has the benefits of DIY while reducing the time commitment typically associated with DIY. It has the benefits of DIWM with software taking on the role of providing educational content, guidance through decision making, etc. This emerging approach offers investors a more dynamic and reliable alternative to the models of the past.

This GenXer is leaning in on DIWS and I look forward to sharing my journey using software rules and tools instead of using an expensive advisor with their own agenda.

Introducing “DIWS” – Enhancing the “DIY” Investor Experience For Individual Investors To Achieve Greater Control and More Reliable Results

Up to now, individuals had three approaches to manage their savings: "Do It Yourself" (DIY), "Do It

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