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Build vs buy for startup AI and data platforms on AWS: a pragmatic framework
This framework guides startups in choosing to build, buy, or assemble AI/data platforms on AWS by weighing costs, time to value, team skills, scalability, security, and risks for a clear 12-18 month roadmap.
Alex Boardman
Apr 184 min read


An AWS-first framework for build vs buy decisions in startup data and AI platforms
This AWS-first framework guides startups in build vs. buy decisions for data and AI platforms by evaluating TCO, time to value, vendor lock-in, scalability, security, compliance, AWS services, funding, AI readiness, governance, and FinOps.
Alex Boardman
Apr 94 min read


How AWS-native startups can choose the right AI use cases without wasting time or budget
AWS-native startups should prioritize AI use cases by assessing business value, feasibility, risk, and speed of impact. Use AWS tools like SageMaker and Bedrock, manage security and costs, and validate ROI with pilots to optimize resources and outcomes.
Alex Boardman
Apr 54 min read


Startup-ready data platforms on AWS: the real build vs buy trade-offs
This guide clarifies AWS build vs buy trade-offs for startups, focusing on speed, cost, skills, compliance, and vendor lock-in to help align data platform choices with business goals and resources.
Alex Boardman
Mar 254 min read


Strategic AI and Data Leadership on AWS: Driving Revenue, Reducing Risk
This guide advises AWS startups to prioritize AI use cases with high revenue potential and low risk, balance costs and security, leverage AWS tools like SageMaker, and align AI efforts with market strategies for scalable growth.
Alex Boardman
Feb 234 min read
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