Foojay
Foojay.io (an acronym for Friends of OpenJDK) is a community-driven platform dedicated to Java and OpenJDK developers worldwide. Initiated by leaders in the Java community, including Geertjan Wielenga, Foojay was created to serve as a trusted, central resource hub where developers can share knowledge, discover tools, follow OpenJDK distributions, and connect around Java-related events and podcasts.
Despite Java's rich ecosystem, it lacked a unified space that brought together real-time updates, curated content, and community interaction under one roof. Foojay.io was launched to fill that gap.
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CLIENT
- Gj IT
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DOMAIN
- IT
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LOCATION
- Netherlands/ Worldwide
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DURATION
- 2023 - ongoing
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TEAM
- Project Manager
- QA Engineer
- UI/UX Designer
- 3 x Software Developers
Project goal
The Challenge: Fragmented Knowledge, No Central Community Hub
The Java ecosystem offers extensive documentation, tools, and distributions, but it was scattered across countless websites and portals. Developers lacked a single, intuitive platform to:
- Access curated, expert-level content on Java and OpenJDK
- Track events and community news
- Share podcasts, blogs, and tutorials
- Collaborate and grow the global Java community
The client wanted a fast, modular, community-editable platform that was both technically robust and friendly to non-technical contributors.
tech stack
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Integration
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Our Solution
Building a Developer-Centric, Scalable Platform.
We led full-cycle product development, from discovery and design to custom implementation, optimization, and continuous enhancement.
What We Did
UX & Design Architecture
- Created a clean, brand-aligned UI featuring a recognizable blue jay mascot (symbolizing loyalty &
openness) - Implemented light/dark mode toggle for better user comfort
- Designed an intuitive navigation structure and modular layout
WordPress Development with Gutenberg
- Built the entire site using custom Gutenberg blocks for flexibility
- Enabled non-technical editors to publish, update, and manage content easily
- Delivered fully responsive templates and pre-built modules for fast content rollout
Custom Plugin Development
Developed bespoke tools:
- Content importers and parsers
- Dynamic layout builder
- Integrated calendar system for global Java events
API Integrations
- Connected OpenJDK distributions and external data feeds
- Created the “Foojay Calendar” based on Google Calendar-style UX
Post-Launch Iteration
- Used HotJar, Google Analytics, and session recordings to study user behavior
- Ran surveys and user tests to detect friction points
- Launched 3 major UX redesigns post-launch to improve content discoverability, accessibility, and user engagement
What’s Next
Foojay is transitioning from a traditional content hub into a dynamic, open developer ecosystem. As part of this evolution, we are actively working on several key initiatives:
Calendar Expansion
The Foojay Calendar is now open to API-based submissions, enabling automated event contributions. It has also been integrated with leading external communities, including JUG Switzerland and Adoptium (Eclipse Foundation), to provide a more comprehensive view of the Java event landscape.
Partner Integrations
We are strengthening collaborations with external event platforms and podcast networks to broaden Foojay’s reach and visibility across the Java ecosystem.
Localized Content Strategy
To improve accessibility and inclusivity, we are exploring multilingual content versions. This will help engage and support a more diverse, global developer audience.
Mobile Optimization and App Development
Recognizing the need for on-the-go access, we are optimizing the platform for mobile use and laying the groundwork for a dedicated mobile application.
Customer Review
We hired Yelk to build a fully custom WordPress portal for our online community from the ground up. They did an excellent job, everything works great, and they’ve been a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend them!
Geertjan Wielenga
Senior Director of Open Source ProjectsView the project at:
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