Case Study: Multinational Multi-Site Network Development for Stellantis

Project Objective

The primary objective of this expansive project, initiated in 2019, was to create multiple multi-site networks for the automobile conglomerate known as Stellantis, formerly FCA. Each brand within the conglomerate, including RAM, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Jeep, Dodge, and more recently Peugeot and Citroën, had its distinct network spanning several countries across Latin America. Each network was designed with a unique content architecture, tailored to the specific needs of each brand and country.

Role and Transition

Initially, my involvement was primarily focused on development and initial coordination, including the design of the initial content architecture for the sites. However, as the project grew, I smoothly transitioned into a project management role, undertaking overall planning and coordination between the CRON team and the client. My responsibilities also included managing servers for Jeep, Alfa Romeo, and Dodge, where I performed DNS and server management, performance improvements, and troubleshooting. For other sites, we coordinated with the team from FCA Brazil who controlled those servers.

Technologies and Strategies

To successfully execute this vast project, I utilized a variety of technologies such as PHP, WordPress, JavaScript, and the Vue framework. I personally integrated each country’s CRM system using their APIs. We used WordPress’s advanced capabilities, starting with classic page templates and making extensive use of Advanced Custom Fields. Recently, I initiated the transition to a block-based workflow. We also created special landing pages for new vehicle releases, keeping each brand’s network fresh and engaging.

Challenges and Solutions

One significant challenge we successfully tackled was developing unique template systems for each brand and ensuring integration with their varied CRM systems, an aspect that was my sole responsibility. Managing constant changes in upper management at FCA during the course of the project was another challenge that we effectively navigated.

Timeline and Continuous Improvement

This project has been a continuous journey of growth and improvement since 2019. We have been adding new countries, broadening the range of vehicles, enhancing features, increasing integrations, and updating designs. Currently, we’re coordinating with teams from India and the US to transition the sites into an Adobe Experience Manager (AEM) architecture to comply with global policies, guiding each country’s executives through this transition.

Outcomes and Successes

Although specific metrics are confidential, the success of this project can be measured by our effective management across 14+ countries, working simultaneously on multiple brands for the same client. The ongoing expansion of our project to include new brands like Peugeot and Citroën further demonstrates our client’s trust in us.

Feedback

The consistent expression of satisfaction from various project partners and our successful navigation through numerous upper management changes at FCA serve as a testament to our successful project management and execution.

In conclusion, my contributions to these multi-brand, multi-site network projects for Stellantis showcase my technical skills, adaptability, and successful transition into a project management role. This case study stands as evidence of a successful group effort by the CRON team and my part on it.