Downtime Dilemma
Podcast Description
"The Downtime Dilemma" dives into hidden costs and challenges of cloud services like AWS and Azure, providing strategies to optimize spending and performance.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on themes related to cloud service optimization, operational challenges, and custom digital solutions. Episode topics include strategies for reducing downtime, the evolution of software needs in different industries, and lessons learned from real-world applications like addressing inventory issues and adapting to technological advancements.

“The Downtime Dilemma” dives into hidden costs and challenges of cloud services like AWS and Azure, providing strategies to optimize spending and performance.
Welcome to The Down Time Dilemma! I’m your host, Casey Hawkinson, and I couldn’t be more excited to kick off this podcast with a conversation that sets the stage for everything we aim to uncover here. I sat down with Brad Amster, the founder and director of operations at Data Design Systems, the very company behind this podcast. With nearly two decades of experience, Brad has built a business that specializes in reducing downtime and optimizing operations through custom digital solutions.
In this episode, Brad shares the origin story of Data Design Systems, offering a rare glimpse into how the company evolved with technological advancements and market needs. We also dive into the challenges companies face when off-the-shelf software doesn’t cut it, and how custom solutions can make a transformative difference. Whether you’re in tech, healthcare, construction, or any industry facing operational bottlenecks, this episode is packed with insights.
Timeline Summary:
[1:24] – Brad shares how an unexpected job change in 2007 sparked the launch of Data Design Systems.
[4:12] – The early days of web development and solving inventory issues on platforms like eBay.
[7:50] – Adapting to evolving technologies and the shift to mobile-first design.
[10:30] – A deep dive into the array of services offered by Data Design Systems, from custom software to secure hosting.
[14:45] – How to get started with hosting for just $5 and where to find more info.
[16:50] – Staying ahead in the tech world and choosing sustainable development languages.
[20:15] – The industries Data Design Systems serves and why their solutions are industry-agnostic.
[23:30] – Brad outlines the client onboarding and customization process.
[26:05] – Addressing common misconceptions about cost and development timelines.
[28:00] – What defines a successful project and long-term client relationships.
[30:00] – Looking ahead: the future of Data Design Systems and how they plan to grow.
Links & Resources:
- Website: DataDesignSystems.com
- Email: [email protected]
- LinkedIn: Data Design Systems on LinkedIn

Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
For a complete disclaimer, please see our Full Disclaimer on the archive page. The Podcast Collaborative bears no responsibility for the podcast’s themes, language, or overall content. Listener discretion is advised. Read our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy for more details.