Bleacher Report

Enhancing Ad Integration

Introduction

They wanted to improve how advertisements were integrated within its community features. As the app expanded, it became crucial to streamline ad placement to enhance user experience and maximize monetization opportunities.

The Problem

The existing ad system faced several issues. There were three different methods for injecting ads into the app, leading to inconsistencies and maintenance challenges. Ads were dynamically inserted during scrolling, which occasionally caused crashes due to concurrent modification exceptions. Additionally, any changes or additions to ad slots would require publishing a new version of the app, limiting the ad team’s flexibility to respond swiftly to market demands.

Actions Taken

As a Senior Android Engineer, I led the initiative to overhaul the ad integration process. We developed a centralized Ad Manager that consolidated all ad creation and injection mechanisms into a single system. This unified approach served as the single source of truth for ad operations, simplifying maintenance and reducing the potential for errors.

To enhance flexibility, we created an Ad Schema that allowed the Ad Manager to request the expected ads for each screen directly from the backend. This change enabled the ad team to dynamically add or modify ad slots without requiring app updates.

Additionally, we have restructured the ad injection process by pre-computing and inserting ads into the content list before rendering it on the screen. This proactive method prevented concurrent modification exceptions, eliminating the crashes users were experiencing.

Outcomes and Impact

Improved the app’s stability and user experience

The new centralized ad management system significantly improved the app’s stability and user experience. Crashes caused by ad injection were eliminated, resulting in a smoother browsing experience for users.

Managing ad content dynamically, and quickly responding to market

The ad team gained the ability to manage ad content dynamically, adding or changing ad slots on demand without the need for new app releases. This flexibility allowed for quicker responses to market opportunities and increased potential for revenue generation via ads.

Key Learnings

This project underscored the importance of simplifying complex systems through a single source of truth. By creating a single point of control for ad management, we reduced complexity and improved reliability of the app. It also highlighted the value of backend-driven configurations, which provide greater flexibility and agility in managing app content without the overhead of frequent app updates.

Championing Jetpack Compose Adoption

Introduction

Anticipating the shift toward modern UI development in Android, Bleacher Report planned to adopt Jetpack Compose—Google’s declarative UI toolkit—for its next-generation app. Preparing the existing development team and codebase for this transition was essential to ensure a smooth and efficient rollout.

The Challenge

The current app was built using the traditional Android View system. Introducing Jetpack Compose presented challenges, as the development team needed practical experience with the new toolkit to contribute effectively to the upcoming app. Additionally, ongoing feature development for the existing app had to continue without disruption.

Actions Taken

Taking the initiative, I led the integration of Jetpack Compose into the current application. We established the foundational infrastructure required to support Compose, configuring project dependencies and ensuring compatibility with existing components.

To demonstrate Compose’s capabilities and encourage adoption, we developed a new feature for the community redesign using Jetpack Compose. This feature showcased how Compose could coexist with legacy UI elements within the app.

I also facilitated training and knowledge sharing among team members. Mentoring other developers and providing resources helped the team build proficiency with Compose, preparing them for the upcoming development of the new app.

Outcomes and Impact

Reducing the learning curve for the future application

Integrating Jetpack Compose into the existing app acted as a catalyst for the team’s adoption of the new technology. Developers gained hands-on experience, reducing the learning curve for future projects. The new feature enriched the app’s functionality and showcased the benefits of modern UI development practices.

Efficiency and effectiveness in the development process

This proactive approach ensured that when development of the new app began, the team was already familiar with Compose, allowing for a more efficient and effective development process.

Key Learnings

This project emphasized the value of early adoption of new technologies and strategic planning. Integrating Jetpack Compose into the existing app minimized risks associated with transitioning to a new UI framework. It also highlighted the importance of leadership in guiding teams through technological changes and fostering an environment of continuous learning and innovation.

Overall Reflections

Through these projects at Bleacher Report, I was able to drive significant improvements in both the technical infrastructure and the development team’s capabilities. By enhancing ad integration, we improved the and app stability, and the ad monetization flexibility. By pioneering Jetpack Compose adoption, we prepared the team for future technological shifts, ensuring that Bleacher Report remains at the forefront of modern Android development.

These experiences reinforced the importance of proactive problem-solving, strategic planning, and effective leadership. They also highlighted the value of continuous learning and adaptability in the ever-evolving field of mobile app development.