JAKALA has been accompanying ZDF as a digitalization partner since 2013, supporting the continuous development of core offerings like ZDFmediathek. In 2021, JAKALA won a five-year framework contract for the entire digital universe of ZDF as part of a European-wide tender. Since then, JAKALA has been responsible for the operation and development of ZDFheute, ZDFmediathek, ZDFtivi, logo! and 3sat, as well as the underlying technical infrastructure.
JAKALA pursues a holistic approach with multiple strategies to equip ZDF for the digital future. As part of the takeover and optimisation, JAKALA has taken responsibility for all existing systems, operating them continuously with 24/7 support. Concurrently, JAKALA is driving the continuous optimization of architecture, code, and processes. We are also redesigning and further developing native apps, such as ZDFmediathek and ZDFheute, which we previously managed.
At the core of the technological realignment lies a modern architectural concept based on cloud-native micro services and a central GraphQL federation. In doing so, JAKALA resolves technical weaknesses and future-proof the systems, focusing on scalability, flexibility, and performance.
Automated testing with tools such as Selenium and Appium, along with solutions like Trakr, simultaneously ensures high quality at a faster pace. JAKALA's digital department oversees the concept, design, and development of all platforms, thereby reducing friction losses. By closely interlinking everything with product strategy, JAKALA continuously provides impulses for innovation.
A partner network with ideal complementary competencies supports JAKALA to succeed in delivery. Axinom, an expert in video streaming backends, manages seamless API orchestration, while Condat contributes valuable expertise as a specialist in the CMS Sophora and Java-based architectures. HBT GmbH offers its expertise in Java and the Google Cloud Platform.