Redesigning the streaming platform for ZDF
Qvest completely revamped ZDF’s streaming platform. The focus: an intuitive, personalized user experience. The new app reflects the broadcaster’s shift from linear to on-demand. Since 2018, we have been involved in the project, playing a key role—especially in UI/UX design for big screens and developing a cross-platform frontend for HbbTV, CTV, and apps like Sky or Fire TV. An optimized metadata structure enables automated content organization and personalized recommendations.
Challenge
Streaming is replacing traditional TV, especially among younger audiences. At the same time, the variety of devices fragments content delivery: different systems, different requirements.
ZDF needed a modern, intuitive platform to deliver content across HbbTV, CTV, and third-party apps. This required platform-agnostic code that scales flexibly and adapts efficiently to new systems.
Goals
- Seamless, intuitive use on all devices
- Personalized content for a better user experience
- Automated metadata management for content structuring
- Fast, platform-independent frontend
- Scalability and cost efficiency
Outcome
A powerful, intuitive, and future-proof platform—launched live with no significant errors. Success came from robust technical implementation, early QA integration, and close collaboration between design, development, and editorial teams. The system reaches its target audience, grows with their needs, and makes complex content easily accessible.
We sincerely appreciate Qvest’s professional and always collaborative support in this crucial project. Their outstanding work in designing the UI and new UX for big-screen devices, as well as developing the new streaming platform for HbbTV and CTV, has been invaluable. Moreover, their expertise in creating metadata concepts and integrating the necessary workflows forms the foundation for the enhanced personalization and automation of ZDF’s OTT offerings. 
TINA KUTSCHER | SVP DIGITAL PRODUCT AND AUTOMATION AT ZDF
