What is a potential benefit of using modular software components?

Using modular software components provides a significant advantage in lowering overall software costs. This cost reduction occurs because modular components can be reused across different projects or systems, minimizing the need for developing new code from scratch. When businesses employ modular design strategies, they can easily swap out or upgrade individual components without having to overhaul the entire system, which can be time-consuming and expensive. This aspect not only saves money on development but can also lead to lower maintenance costs over the software's lifespan, as specific modules can be updated or repaired independently.

While the other options present valuable aspects related to modular software development, they do not directly encapsulate the primary economic benefit that arises from this approach. For instance, while modular components can certainly reduce integration time and improve flexibility in updates, the direct impact on overall budgetary considerations is most evident in the cost savings associated with reusability and efficiency in development workflows.