Netter Together – The DMS Crew: Let’s Talk About Sisu.
So what exactly is Sisu? Well, it’s something that definitely helps Tommi in his work. At DMS, we don’t think in problems — we think in solutions. That’s true for the whole team, but in Tommi’s case, it’s practically in the job description. With his strong skills in network technology and server infrastructure, he maps out entire projects — from concept to rollout. In our interview, he tells us how the Pomodoro technique helps him stay focused and where he finds his favorite series — spoiler: the answer has something to do with Sisu.
You Never Stop Learning.
That’s something we constantly experience when talking to the DMS team — the people here are open, genuine, and always willing to share both the professional and the personal. With Tommi, we learned something new: Sisu — a Finnish mindset for staying calm and grounded. And it clearly works. As Head of Solutions at DMS, he seems completely unshakable, even though his job is packed with challenges. He’s responsible for designing and implementing complex infrastructure solutions — and making sure everything runs smoothly. Since 2016, he’s been enriching the DMS crew with deep expertise in network and server systems. And he keeps learning too — because in his field, standing still is not an option.
A Job That Demands Constant Focus.
That’s how Tommi sees it. He’s always upskilling — and loving it. He speaks about tech with real passion, lighting up when he talks about the latest servers, infrastructure setups, or hardware. From configuration and testing to deployment and maintenance — this is his world. And the way he explains things, even non-techies like us can follow. His job revolves around storage space, CPU performance, and backend systems, and honestly, we can’t imagine a better person for it. He coordinates tasks, works with partners and suppliers, and does the final check — always with calm precision and a deep understanding. Although later we learn it’s not about “keeping your eye on the ball” for Tommi — it’s more like keeping your eye on the puck...
From Medical Informatics to DMS.
Tommi graduated from a technical college specializing in IT and network technology — and he’s a doer. “Certificates alone don’t mean much if you don’t know what you’re doing,” he says. Every qualification needs to be applied in practice. Before DMS, he built complex software for construction companies and developed databases — all while studying computer science at university with the goal of working in medical IT. But side jobs as a system admin took him down a different path — one that’s still focused on building meaningful digital tools. Why DMS? “Honestly, it was the first application I ever sent,” he says. “It was a modern job ad for a varied position — and I got the offer right away.” As always: calm and to the point. What convinced him about DMS? The people. “Climbing the ladder in a big corporation only to become just another number — that was never for me,” he explains. At DMS, no one is replaceable. Everyone brings unique skills to the table — and that’s exactly what everyone here has in common.
Rink Time Is Reset Time.
One more thing the DMS team shares: we clear our heads best by doing something — preferably something active. For Tommi, that’s hockey. He plays in an amateur team and, after a pandemic pause, is now back to training regularly. What else helps beat motivation slumps? He’s tested various productivity methods — and we found out how tomatoes help him stay on track.
A Taste for Focus.
More specifically, their Italian cousins: Tommi is a fan of the Pomodoro technique — using a tomato-shaped kitchen timer to break work into focused 25-minute blocks. The timer rings when time’s up, encouraging small wins and consistent progress. For Tommi, it’s a great way to stay sharp and efficient: focus on what you can move forward in 25 minutes, rather than drifting aimlessly. The timer even adds a little feel-good reward. Also motivating: new projects — like the one he completed with Michi for the Austrian Lotteries. Planned and executed together, it was a win for everyone — internally and externally. And of course, Tommi tells us all this in his usual relaxed tone. Wonder why?
Talking Sisu — Calmly, of Course.
Inner strength — that’s what Sisu is all about. Tommi says his cool-headedness probably comes from his Finnish roots and the fact that he’s embraced this concept for himself. Sisu isn’t a technique — it’s a character trait. It combines ideas like grit, endurance, and perseverance. It’s about drawing on inner reserves and pushing through even the toughest challenges. Is that why Finland ranks number one in the World Happiness Report? Could be. One thing’s for sure: Tommi and Sisu — it’s a perfect match.
Thinking in Solutions, Not Problems.
Tommi knows that getting stressed doesn’t solve anything. “I won’t fix it faster by rushing,” he says. And he points out something important: not every issue needs to be taken too seriously. “Is it life-or-death — or just a cracked display?” With Tommi, it’s always: stay calm, find solutions, don’t panic. And we know this much — his solutions are always exceptionally well thought out. You can feel the Finnish mindset here too. As the saying goes: “We’ll go through solid rock if we have to.” No matter how tough the challenge, the message is clear: never give up. And as Tommi shows us, you can do that quietly — and powerfully.
