Case
Strategic CMS selection for a major healthcare insurer.
From legacy monolith to a widely supported headless choice
How a structured selection process laid the foundation for the new digital architecture of a major healthcare insurer.
The Challenge.
As one of the largest healthcare insurers in the Netherlands, this organisation's digital services are critical for both members and partners. Over the years, the existing Content Management System (CMS) had grown organically, but it had eventually become a barrier to innovation. The primary bottlenecks were:
- Operational Risks: An outdated structure and complex management environment (across business & IT) increased the risk of misinformation and escalations.
- Inefficiency: High licensing costs for a system that was not being utilized optimally, combined with an inefficient use of internal expertise.
- Fragmented Focus: While internal engagement was high, there was a lack of central orchestration and specialist knowledge required to execute an objective, future-proof selection process.
The healthcare insurer engaged Breakfast to lead the selection process and bridge the gap between business requirements and technological possibilities.
Our approach.
Our methodology was designed to separate the 'noise' of features from actual business value. The process consisted of three phases:
- 1
From Strategy to Use Cases: We started with an intensive kick-off and stakeholder interviews across all disciplines. Instead of a static list of hundreds of requirements, we translated the roadmap and pain points into five core use cases. These cases served as the ultimate litmus test for every vendor, supported by approximately 80 prioritized (MoSCoW) functional and non-functional requirements.
- 2
Market Validation (RfP): Based on the architectural landscape, we compiled a long-list of five headless CMS vendors. During the RFP phase, we looked beyond technology; we evaluated roadmaps, pricing models, support structures, and the 'fit' with the organisation's security requirements and architecture. This resulted in a shortlist of three parties.
- 3
The Sandbox: Proof in Practice: No paper promises, but practical testing. For two weeks, the shortlisted vendors provided an environment in which the insurer's team tested the use cases live. Topics such as content creation, multi-site management, integration, AI applications, and content modeling were evaluated by the users themselves.
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Our approachFacts about this project
5
CMS vendors long-listed
80+
Prioritised requirements
2 wks
Live sandbox testing
~3 mo
Total timeline
The result.
Within three months, we achieved a result that is widely supported throughout the entire organization:
- Unified Choice: A unanimous selection of a CMS that aligns seamlessly with the organisation's new headless architecture.
- Value-Driven: By emphasizing use cases, the choice was based on daily efficiency rather than unnecessary 'bells & whistles'.
- Strategic Insight: The selection process acted as a mirror; it provided the organisation with immediate insight into the necessary optimization of internal processes and governance.
- Roadmap for Success: The process did not end with a signature. We delivered the initial framework for a phased, low-risk rollout strategy.
Get in touch with
Michiel Tielemans
Program Management & Business Value
20+ years of experience on the client side, agencies, and integrators. Michiel knows how to translate business goals into actionable plans, without losing focus along the way.
Starting your own vendor selection.
Breakfast guides organisations from strategy to a well-founded choice, with a structured approach, independent advice, and no hidden agendas.
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