Examine a build-versus-buy decision properly
Compare building, buying, and integrating across the full life of the capability, not its first release.
What this prompt helps you do
A comparison covering build cost, ongoing maintenance, switching cost, strategic control, and a recommendation.
When to use it
A capability is needed and a credible vendor exists, and the build estimate covers only version one.
What to prepare
The goal, relevant source material, constraints, examples, and the decision or action this should support.
How to get a strong result
Include maintenance and exit cost; both are routinely omitted and both favour buying more than teams expect.
How to use this prompt
Replace each placeholder with accurate context. Paste the complete prompt into Claude, review the response critically, resolve important questions, and use it as a considered input to the next decision—not as an unchecked final answer.