Once users get used to a certain system performance, it becomes the standard. This is problematic with systems like Prometheus, which has been steadily optimized to a local maximum over the last 10 years. Problematic because we know there are architectural changes that can get it into the area of a much better local optimum, but it would require first starting over and living with a less performant system for some time. Is there a name for this kind of performance dilemma?
Somehow this reminds me of the innovator's dilemma too: It's not that the incumbent can't innovate, it's that they don't want to cannibalize their current position.
Technical debt?
Post mature optimization
I love a good puzzle.
1moSunk cost?