Process Manager: Modernizing BCI’s intranet tool with Vaadin

BCI modernized its internal tools by replacing legacy systems with Vaadin. With the new Process Manager intranet tool, they improved developer onboarding, streamlined operations, and delivered a modern, responsive user experience—all using a full-stack Java approach.

The challenge

BCI Mozambique sought to modernize its internal applications. The bank had been using legacy technologies. Additionally, integrating new developers into the team was challenging due to the steep learning curve associated with the way things are built. BCI needed a Java-based framework that allowed them to build and maintain internal applications efficiently while ensuring a smooth onboarding process for new developers.

Screenshot of Process Manager's task management interface showing a list view of active tasks under the 'Tratar' (To handle) tab.

The solution

Starting in April 2018, the team served 2700 users by adopting Vaadin 8.3.1 to improve UI compliance, simplify development, and leverage built-in components. Vaadin’s server-side approach reduced the learning curve, enabled responsive design, and simplified HTTP communication management.

BCI chose Vaadin as the foundation for its strategic projects, including an internal portal and a business process management solution called Process Manager. The decision was driven by Vaadin’s ability to allow full-stack Java development, reducing the need for extensive frontend expertise among developers. Vaadin's default responsive components and intuitive structure also enabled BCI to streamline its development process and modernize its applications with minimal friction.

Key milestones:

• Vaadin 13 to 14 (2020): Added CKEditor and new features. A 6-member team completed the migration in just under a month (113.25 hours) using Scrum, releasing the updated app on June 15, 2020.
• Vaadin 14 to 23 (2022): Upgraded to utilize Vaadin Prime, centralized CSS, and design systems. An 8-member team completed 33 stories in 193 hours, improving both scalability and design consistency.

Screenshot of the Process Manager's interface showing a task management dashboard and workflow diagram.

The result

• Improved developer productivity: BCI found it significantly easier to integrate new developers into projects due to Vaadin’s Java-based approach, reducing the learning curve.
• Efficient internal processes: The Process Manager solution, built using Vaadin Flow, successfully handles critical business functions, including client claims management and payroll processing.

• Enhanced responsiveness and UI consistency: By adopting Vaadin Flow, BCI was able to develop responsive applications more efficiently. The use of modern, accessible UI components and a shared design system helped ensure a consistent and polished user experience across the application.

• Simplified maintenance: Easy end-to-end monitoring and logging with server-side architecture.
• Future-proof: Regular updates ensure scalability and access to new features.
• Better user experience: Internal feedback highlighted a strong user experience in terms of the platform’s look and feel, improving engagement within the organization.
• Strong support & community: Vaadin’s expert chat and documentation helped BCI resolve challenges quickly, ensuring smooth project development.

BCI's transition to Vaadin has resulted in a more efficient development process, allowing them to build scalable and user-friendly internal applications faster. With its ease of integration and Java-centric approach, Vaadin has also enabled BCI to improve operational efficiency and streamline developer onboarding.

Based on their positive experience, BCI strongly recommends Vaadin for other financial institutions looking to modernize their applications due to its ease of use and Java base.