How to Evaluate Vendor Lock-In Risk in Support Operations

Long-term support contracts often solve short-term problems but create long-term rigidity. McKinsey has noted that operational lock-in reduces adaptability in volatile environments.

This blog walks through how to assess whether vendor commitments limit flexibility.

Common challenges explored:

• Minimum volume or seat commitments
  
  

• Slow change management with partners
  
  

• Difficulty adapting to new requirements
  
  

Supporting research:

• McKinsey & Company, Operational Agility in Service Models
  https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/operations/our-insights

Recommended tool:  Elastic Support Model Self-Assessment