Product Owner · SWR/ARD · 2023 – 2025 · Baden-Baden
SWR Multiplatform Service for the ARD Player
Context
The so-called Multiplatform Service fed into the ARD Player and aimed to solve playback problems across platforms: HLS and DASH topics, Safari subtitle bugs on iOS devices, TV playback problems and similar issues.
Problem
When I took over the project, the scope was unclear. Part of what the project had originally been meant to do had already been implemented by other products. Stakeholders explicitly did not want to stop the project.
Constraints
Critical role in the playback stack: errors in our service could have led to the ARD Player showing no image or black screens. Safety and backup concepts were core delivery requirements. There was also reconstruction of the original scope, existing playout infrastructure and public broadcasting process reality.
Process
First step: contact previous project managers and understand why certain originally planned implementations were never prioritised. Second step: assess concrete playback problems with the development team and stakeholders. Third step: rollout with fallback behaviour, monitoring and rollback options.
Solution
A service that supports the ARD Player at clearly defined breaking points, with a clear safety and backup concept.
Results
The service went into production. Playback problems in the addressed areas were solved. Concrete figures are not public.
Learnings
The hardest projects are rarely only technically complex. Often their original purpose has faded, but they still need to continue. Clean redefine-and-deliver is an underestimated skill.