Definition
Vendor lock-in is the cost and difficulty of switching away from a supplier once you depend on their proprietary formats, integrations, or data.
Lock-in is invisible at signing and only surfaces when you try to leave: proprietary data formats, custom integrations, retrained staff, and egress fees all raise the exit cost. Quantify it before you commit by projecting the switching cost at years 3, 5, and 7.
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