Kubernetes on Azure keeps HVC app scalable
Cloud technology supports HVC's mission to reduce waste
HVC works with municipalities, water boards, and residents on sustainable waste processing. Through an app, residents receive exactly the right information they need. How did digital agency Unc Inc develop the digital tools for HVC, and what does this mean for the scalability of Kubernetes on TrueFullstaq's Azure platform?
Sustainable waste management with a mobile app
"HVC provides sustainable waste management for municipalities and water boards in North Holland, South Holland, Flevoland, and Friesland," explains Martijn Houtman, Technical Director & Partner at Unc Inc. The organization offers a pay-per-waste-volume concept. Residents pay a base fee plus an additional amount for each bag of residual waste they dispose of.
"Two years ago, we developed a mobile app focused on improving waste separation by residents," says Martijn. The app gives residents insight into their residual waste, comparisons with others, and tips to reduce waste. "Each affiliated municipality has its own pricing structure and rules that need to be incorporated into the application."
Scalable application on Kubernetes
The app was developed using Laravel, React Native, and an API application, running on Kubernetes clusters managed by TrueFullstaq. "This platform ensures scalability. Currently, there are approximately 200,000 users. One new municipality as a customer means 15,000 to 20,000 new users," Martijn explains.
Scalability is also crucial at peak moments, such as when new collection calendars are published. TrueFullstaq recommended Kubernetes precisely because of these scalability requirements.
Database solution on Azure
The database plays a critical role in scalability. "Last year, four new municipalities joined, adding 50,000 additional users," says Martijn. The original single MySQL database showed limitations and will reach end-of-life in 2024.
TrueFullstaq implemented a flexible MySQL database on Azure, where requests go directly to the database server. According to Martijn, "We immediately noticed significantly improved performance and scalability in the acceptance environment."
TrueFullstaq as a managed hosting partner
Martijn emphasizes the importance of a partner like TrueFullstaq: "For small platforms, we manage hosting ourselves, but not for such extensive platforms. In the assignment, HVC set requirements for the SLA. We advised entrusting this to TrueFullstaq as a managed hosting partner."
The collaboration is intensive: "Colleagues and I took a crash course in Kubernetes at TrueFullstaq's office. When things get too complex for us, we brainstorm with their engineers. It's reassuring to be able to rely on them," says Martijn.
Server upgrade and future plans
HVC's websites run on Drupal and are hosted by TrueFullstaq. Michael van Excel, Linux engineer at TrueFullstaq, explains: "For upgrades, we use Ansible playbooks with all our best practices."
HVC aims to reduce residual waste from 250 kilograms per person per year to 100 kilograms by 2025. Unc Inc contributes to the ongoing development of their digital tools, while TrueFullstaq ensures a reliable, scalable infrastructure.
