Huh. If an IC had a compelling argument for cost savings like this, I’d recommend they pursue the idea as a 10% style project. First verify the basics: licensing, health of the community, etc. Then build a standalone pipeline using the new protocol. Process data, collect benchmarks and metrics. Present your findings to the team and manager. If the manager thinks it’s still viable, they go up the chain and involve principals, architects and so on.

In summary, lower the bar for trying new things. This is how we innovate.