<janhenk />

About

I build functional web applications with a focus on the long term: maintainable, reliable, and clearly structured.

Over the years, I've worked on many different projects: for clients, but also on my own products for which I was responsible long term. That combination has shaped how I work today.

Building and maintaining real products

Since early 2019, I've been working on hovenier.nl, a platform that I built and have been running ever since. I'm responsible for the full technical realization and day-to-day operation of the platform, from development and maintenance to ongoing improvements.

Working on a project for many years changes how you think about technical decisions. Clear structure, maintainable code, and deliberate choices upfront pay off when you need to adjust or extend things later.

Earlier projects

Before hovenier.nl, I spent about 12 years working on a variety of other projects and long-term collaborations. Some were client projects, others were products I helped build and maintain over multiple years.

Across those projects, I've seen the same patterns repeat themselves: applications that were rushed early on become hard to change later, while applications that start with a clear structure tend to remain flexible and easier to work with over time.

That experience taught me how important it is to build well from the start.

Why I work the way I do

My way of working is the result of experience, not preference for rules or process.

Clear boundaries, written communication, and focused work help keep projects predictable and manageable. This reduces misunderstandings and makes it easier to deal with changes.

This approach leads to better results for both sides: fewer surprises and applications that are still easy to understand and adapt years later.

What kind of work suits me

I prefer working on projects where technical quality and good maintainability matter. I'm most comfortable working independently, with clear expectations and async-first communication. If this approach aligns with your needs, the Home and How I work pages will give you a good picture of what working together looks like.