[Rachel Lim]

I believe inspiration comes when you have a bit of success, and then keep trying to do better.

COTS parts can make it easier to get the initial bit of success, so that you desire to overcome challenges rather than just give up.
COTS parts do not necessarily remove the drive to do better, or to learn more so you can improve the pre-existing solutions.

I don't believe COTS parts are bad because I believe they make success, and therefore inspiration, accessible to more teams.