In modern business, the cloud computing processes that manage business logic—like the sequence of bank transactions and shipment logistics necessary to fulfill an online order—are so intertwined that a single failure can cascade and stop business in an entire geographic region. If not resolved within seconds or minutes, a system "downtime" event can cost an enterprise millions of dollars.

Downtime is a program comprising eight "worker" samples that initially keep time with a metronomic grid. Each worker digresses from its schedule and pulls the others with it, their aggregate disobedience skewing the grid. This is expressed through audio.

A chart interface watches the system crashing, recovering, and crashing again. It is inspired by observability dashboards used to monitor the reliability and performance of business systems.

"Downtime" also connotes rest, or relief from the chorus that demands worker availability, access, and attention.

See also:

Faith, Puzzle, Hateful Little Thing, Dumb Desire, Talks