NLZIET validates React Native for cross-platform apps with a single codebase 

Maintaining multiple native applications simultaneously for iOS, Android, web, and smart TV platforms is costly and complex. NLZIET, the streaming service offering content from NPO, RTL, and Talpa, faced a key question: can React Native cross-platform development simplify the development process without compromising performance? Through a clearly defined proof of concept, NetRom Software demonstrated that it is possible to develop applications for all platforms using a single codebase.

Challenge: complexity of cross-platform development

Developing and maintaining separate apps for different platforms requires significant time and development capacity. Sander Kouwenhoven, CTO at NLZIET, explains: “For the different apps, we would need to hire one or two specialized developers for each platform. That would be a costly and vulnerable model.” This results in higher costs, a longer time to market, and more complex coordination between teams.

React Native: opportunity or risk?

React Native could provide a possible solution. This open-source framework makes it possible to build apps for multiple platforms using a single codebase. Kouwenhoven wanted to determine whether this technology could be applied effectively in the video app domain. The key question was whether React Native could meet the strict requirements of a streaming platform such as NLZIET.

Solution: React Native Proof of Concept with NetRom 

NLZIET deliberately chose to collaborate with NetRom. “The decision to work with NetRom Software was partly based on previous positive experiences and competitive hourly rates,” Kouwenhoven explains. “In addition, the clearly defined and standalone nature of the assignment made it a suitable test case to evaluate whether nearshoring could be a viable solution.”

The approach was pragmatic: a strict proof of concept with clearly defined objectives and a fixed budget. The goal was to technically demonstrate that React Native could meet the demanding requirements of a streaming platform.

Project setup: blended team with clear boundaries 

The proof of concept was required to perform at the same level as the existing native applications. The budget was strictly defined – any overrun would result in termination of the project. A predefined exit strategy was also agreed upon in case the technology or the team failed to meet expectations.

The collaboration was structured as a blended team: three NLZIET team members worked alongside two developers and one tester from NetRom. A critical element of the engagement was the in-person kickoff at the NetRom Campus in Romania, where extensive knowledge was exchanged among all team members over several days. 

Results: React Native validated within three months 

Technical validation: In less than three months, the team delivered an application that met all defined technical requirements. The project was completed within budget, and the app performs at the same level as the existing native applications.

“With this, NetRom Software has validated a theory for NLZIET that is decisive for the technology choices we will be making in the coming years,” Kouwenhoven states. “We now know that React Native is suitable for our platform. We also understand what is required to make the transition.”

Strategic clarity for the future

The proof of concept provided the strategic clarity NLZIET needed. The structured approach helped prevent costly missteps: “If the outcome had shown that React Native was not a suitable solution, we would have continued with our existing technology stack.”

The PoC delivered more than technical validation. NLZIET can now make informed decisions about its platform strategy. A single codebase enables lower development and maintenance costs, and new features can be rolled out simultaneously across all platforms.