We are motivated by the 'tempo' of industry change and are dedicated to always being forward-focused.

SDS President and founder Dave Cole started out over 40 years ago as a media sales executive. At the time, desktop computers were becoming more commonplace and Dave recognized the impact new technology could have in reducing the time it was taking to create or revise media advertising proposals. It was then that Dave decided to upgrade his own computer programming skills and write his first media application, ’SDS Sales’.

While proud of how much SDS has grown over the years, Dave and his team are not interested in reflecting or looking back. That’s because everyone at SDS is too busy continually looking forward for ways to help their diverse range of broadcast clients.

A Canadian firm based in Toronto, SDS (Specialty Data Systems) now produces a fully unified suite of enterprise software for radio, television, and digital media. Collectively called SDS Symphony, the component applications are unique within the industry, and include Sales, Traffic, CRM, Creative, A/R and Reports for TV, Programming.

SDS Symphony runs on the same database, meaning everyone in every department is looking at the same data, subject to user rights. This all-in-one application suite is designed bottom up to work together, and greatly improves the management, operations, and bottom line to over 500 radio and television stations and on-line portals across North America.

The foundation of SDS’s success is based on listening to our clients. Through this direct collaboration, we implement solutions that streamline workflow, consolidate departments, and, through the application of AI to sales and inventory, increase revenues.

It’s these qualities of being scalable, agile, and eager to innovate which makes SDS stand out from their competitors, and resulted in SDS being ranked #1 by the Traffic Directors Guild of America’s final survey.

SDS Team Leads

DAVE COLE, President

Since the 1970's, Dave has been developing innovative solutions for broadcasting companies. With a background in advertising sales, Dave has held sales and senior management, ownership, and founder positions at radio stations, televisions stations, cable television networks, and rep firms. Dave also has a strong software development background and insightful understanding of new technologies. These skills enabled Dave to found Specialty Data Systems Inc in 1993. Today, SDS software empowers broadcasters at hundreds of television and radio stations throughout North America.

EMAIL DAVE COLE >>

JIM ANDERSON, COO

Prior to joining Specialty Data Systems Inc., Jim was Manager and Systems Administrator for the Toronto-based company Corus Entertainment (previously Power Broadcasting). Jim responsibilities included managing the traffic operations and information technology needs of a range of radio and television stations in Ontario. Now a member of Specialty Data Systems Inc., Jim looks forward to working with you to determine your needs and find the best technology solutions, while also guaranteeing you the best in customer service.

EMAIL JIM ANDERSON >>

Jordan Scarlett, Vice President Client Service

Jordan brings extensive broadcasting experience to SDS, with over 13 years of experience in radio Traffic systems and diplomas in Radio Broadcasting and Media Marketing and Sales. He also holds a certificate in Computer Programming from Ryerson University, enhancing his ability to solve complex technical challenges. With over 12 years of experience in customer service and technology, Jordan is dedicated to ensuring client success. He provides tailored solutions that address unique needs and help clients maximize the value of SDS Symphony software.


EMAIL Jordan Scarlett >>

Testimonials

"What I appreciate most about SDS is their commitment to client service through on-demand training for new hires and their approach to providing personalized on-line and telephone support. SDS takes the time to understand the details of our operation, making recommendations about how we can simplify operations and harness even more out of our team. I look forward to a continued partnership with SDS."


Jack Fritz, President / CEO,
RESULTS RADIO

"Since 2009, SDS has consistently delivered on its promise to simplify processes and enhance efficiency. Moreover, SDS’s suite of tools keeps apace with the ever-evolving priorities of the broadcast industry, regularly adding new apps and features. The success of our longstanding relationship with SDS is due to their robust management tools, their responsive client support, and their continued attention to our needs."


Robert Furlong, Executive Vice President,
PAMAL BROADCASTING LTD.

"The most important consideration of any investment I make is the potential ROI and SDS Symphony, easily and decisively, delivers the best return on investment. SDS Symphony replaces up to 5 separate systems by incorporating Traffic, Sales, A/R, CRM, and Creative into one efficient solution. Working with one vendor not only cuts operating costs, it eliminates multiple terms and contracts, it also allows for a meaningful partnership with one vendor who truly understands our overall operation."


Trila Bumstead, President,
OHANA MEDIA GROUP

"We love SDS Symphony! It is so much more than a traffic system! It is a CRM system, a Sales Proposal system, a Creative system, and more. A lot of things that you would need to buy from multiple vendors with other Traffic systems. With SDS Symphony, all these components are included, beautifully orchestrated to work together. With SDS Symphony you get so much more for the price you would pay just for a competing Traffic system. SDS is a far better value!"


Walter Ploegman, Director of Operations,
BLACKBURN RADIO INC.

"We have no hesitation in recommending their products. They fill our needs and are always innovating to meet new challenges in our business. On top of that the SDS team is accessible and responsive in solving problems. Thus, great partners to work with."


Doug Kirk, President,
DURHAM RADIO INC.

"Through the seamless integration of SDS’ Accounts Receivable system into the Traffic Software, we are able to monitor our client’s credit standing on a company-wide basis with minimal steps. This amalgamation drastically minimizes check and balance procedures and has measurably improved our individual station collections and bad debt."


Cam Cowie, Vice President & COO,
HARVARD BROADCASTING

"SDS has proven to be an effective task management tool for our Radio Copywriters and Producers. Our network spans several provinces and dozens of stations, with hundreds of orders coming in weekly. SDS seamlessly integrates our creative work with sales orders to provide easy track ability and day-to-day project management. As well, SDS Support is exemplary - responding quickly to the few issues we've encountered during our transition to this software."


Mike Broesky, Radio & Online Creative Dept. Manager,
GOLDEN WEST

Partners

SDS prides itself on our partnerships with not only our clients, but other cutting-edge technology companies. We hold these companies in the highest regard, and value working with them in creating the best products possible.