Jan Jaap Zijlstra
Pega Certified Lead System Architect at BPM Company
Jan Jaap: “I studied in Groningen, where I combined mathematics with technical cognitive science, a field in which artificial intelligence played an important role. I was fascinated by how systems think, reason, and make decisions and how those concepts can be translated into working technology.”
First steps in IT
“My very first job was at a knowledge technology firm that was part of Arthur Andersen. There, I learned how to think in a structured way about knowledge and systems. I then went on to work for an Amsterdam-based internet company, where I contributed to building the Rabobank website. When Rabobank decided to bring the website in-house, I further specialized in Java. That marked the starting point of my career as a Java developer.”
From Java to enterprise development
“Through Ordina, I continued to grow in my career, first as a Java developer and later as a Java Enterprise developer. After about five years, I was introduced to BPM suites and BPM technology. That was the point at which I moved to Cordys, which at the time was a competitor of Pega Systems in the Netherlands. I worked with Cordys technology for five years.”
The common thread: a search for structure
“Looking back, there is a clear common thread throughout my career: from scripting to programming, and from programming to open source. At the same time, I gradually became disillusioned with the endless variety of Java open-source solutions. Every project came with its own unique combination, and it often felt as though I had to start from scratch each time. Constantly integrating, constantly rebuilding. What I was really looking for was the ability to add structural, long-term value.”
The power of Pega
“What appeals to me so strongly about the Pega Suite is that it is a standardized solution that still allows for a high degree of customization. You work within a solid, well-designed platform instead of constantly stitching together separate components. For me, that is the key advantage of a development platform with integrated functionality: consistency, reusability, and speed, without compromising on flexibility.”
Why BPM Company
“Through Pega itself, I found my way to BPM Company. Pega’s director introduced me to one of their first partners in the Netherlands. From the very first meeting, I felt a strong connection with both the company and the people, and that connection is still there today. Normally, I stay with an employer for around five years, but BPM Company has now kept me engaged for fourteen years. That really says it all.”
Working with enjoyment and challenge
“We work with great clients and on inspiring projects. I have not yet experienced a single project that I did not find interesting or challenging. It is a genuinely enjoyable environment to work in. BPM Company strikes exactly the right balance: small enough for individuals to have real influence, yet large enough to take on serious, complex projects.”
A place to grow
“For ambitious, technically skilled professionals, BPM Company is a very appealing employer. You are not just a number here. The clients we work with are highly committed to their projects. Pega initiatives require a higher initial investment, which also means that clients are motivated and genuinely want to build together. In addition, we invest heavily in education and training, ensuring that everyone has the right knowledge and skills. It is an environment in which you continue to grow and develop.”
Outside of work
“Outside of work, I am an avid tennis player. I enjoy cycling or walking in nature, and whenever I get the chance, I like to play a game of chess online.”
