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From Custom Builds to Fivetran: Evolving Our Data Pipeline Strategy episode artwork

Aug 14, 2025 7 min

From Custom Builds to Fivetran: Evolving Our Data Pipeline Strategy

from The Dashboard Effect Hosted by Brick Thompson, Jon Thompson, Caleb Ochs, Landon Ochs

In this episode of The Dashboard Effect, Brick and Landon discuss their shift in thinking on whether to build custom data connectors or use third-party tools like Fivetran. They share the pros, cons, and lessons learned from their proof-of-concept with Fivetran, and why APIs are changing the data pipeline game. Key Moments: 1:15 – Why custom connectors made sense in the past 2:00 – The rise of APIs and the challenge of building connectors for them 2:39 – Realizing the variety of systems—and limits of pre-built connectors 4:03 – How Fivetran’s dedicated API teams save time and reduce risk 4:57 – Turnaround times and when a custom build is still needed 5:56 – Cost trade-offs: upfront development vs. subscription model 6:30 – Support considerations for in-house vs. third-party connectors 6:41 – Exploring other tools and continuing custom pipeline work 7:11 – Closing thoughts and advice for data teams Blue Margin helps middle-market companies turn their data into a strategic asset through automated dashboards and data solutions. By simplifying the flow of information, we empower leaders to make confident, data-driven decisions that drive growth and efficiency. Learn more at bluemargin.com.

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In this episode of The Dashboard Effect, Brick and Landon discuss their shift in thinking on whether to build custom data connectors or use third-party tools like Fivetran. They share the pros, cons, and lessons learned from their proof-of-concept with Fivetran, and why APIs are changing the data pipeline game. Key Moments: 1:15 – Why custom connectors made sense in the past 2:00 – The rise of APIs and the challenge of building connectors for them 2:39 – Realizing the variety of systems—and...

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From Custom Builds to Fivetran: Evolving Our Data Pipeline Strategy

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