Upgrading a platform involves more than just installing software—especially for organisations where continuity, reliability, and public service are paramount. The process of analyzing, testing, verifying, and fine-tuning is now complete, as the updated digital publishing platforms for the Rijnland Water Board and the Schieland and Krimpenerwaard Water Board are officially live.
This process was not just about technology. It was about collaboration, quality, and laying a stable digital foundation for the years to come.
From the initial technical assessment to the final acceptance tests, we worked closely with the points of contact at both water boards. It was a collaborative effort that brought together knowledge, practical experience, and technical expertise.
The Power of a Joint Testing Phase
An upgrade of this magnitude requires precision. In projects like this, true quality lies not only in the code, but also in the way you work together to validate whether a platform is ready for production.
That is why we closely involved the Product Owners and webmasters from both organisations in the acceptance process. Not just to check off functionalities, but specifically to test the platform in practice. This collaboration ensured that we not only implemented technical improvements but also that the platform is better prepared for its launch.
A Shared Foundation, Without Dependencies
Although both water authorities use a similar technological foundation, we deliberately opted for logically separate environments. This allows both organisations to retain full autonomy over their own platforms.
This means freedom in structure, content, management processes, and further development, without dependencies on the other environment. At the same time, both organisations benefit from the power of a modern, proven open-source architecture.
We believe this balance is important. No unnecessary complexity, but also no rigid one-size-fits-all solution.
Rijnland Administration Page
A technical foundation built for the long term
During the upgrade, we deliberately looked beyond mere functionality. Security, maintainability, and digital continuity were also key priorities.
The platforms run on a modern stack, combined with a carefully managed Python runtime and up-to-date dependencies. During the final checks, we performed additional verifications on security, configuration, and technical stability to ensure the go-live takes place on a solid and controlled foundation.
It is precisely these types of projects that demonstrate how important structural maintenance and active lifecycle management are. A platform is never “finished.” It must continue to function securely, be manageable, and remain future-proof. That is why we look not only to today but also to the years ahead.
Schieland homepage
Open Source as a Strategic Choice
Both water boards opted for an open-source foundation using Wagtail, Django, and Python. This choice was made not only for flexibility but also for transparency, scalability, and long-term continuity.
Open source gives organisations control. No dependence on closed vendor ecosystems or licensing models that limit innovation, but rather a platform that can grow with the organisation and be adapted as needed.
We believe this is particularly important within public organisations. Digital infrastructure must be sustainable, verifiable, and future-proof.
Schieland Administration Page
Collaboration as a Key Success Factor
Ultimately, the success of this project lies not only in the technology, but above all in the collaboration. The short lines of communication, open dialogue, and active involvement of both water boards made it possible to adapt quickly and implement improvements immediately. We would like to thank everyone from both organisations for the pleasant collaboration, their constructive input, and the energy they put into this project. Onward to the future.