Coda
Docs, tables, and apps combined into one collaborative workspace
Colanode
Local-first collaboration workspace combining chat, docs, and databases
Self-hosted collaboration platform with real-time chat, rich text pages, customizable databases, and file management. Works offline with local-first architecture and CRDT-powered concurrent editing.
Overview
Modern Collaboration with Data Ownership
Colanode is a self-hosted collaboration platform that combines real-time chat, rich text editing, structured databases, and file management in a single workspace. Built on a local-first architecture, it ensures teams can work seamlessly whether online or offline, with all changes saved locally first and synced in the background.
Technical Foundation
The platform leverages Conflict-free Replicated Data Types (CRDTs) powered by Yjs to enable true real-time collaboration. Multiple team members can edit pages and database records simultaneously, with the system automatically merging changes without conflicts. All data is stored in a local SQLite database for instant access, then synchronized to your self-hosted server.
Deployment Flexibility
Colanode adapts to your infrastructure needs. Connect via web or desktop apps to multiple servers, each hosting separate workspaces for different teams or projects. Self-hosting requires Postgres with pgvector, Redis (or compatible services like Valkey), and S3-compatible storage. Docker Compose and Kubernetes Helm charts are provided for straightforward deployment. Free beta cloud servers in EU and US regions are available for immediate testing.
Highlights
Local-first architecture with offline support and background sync via SQLite
CRDT-powered real-time collaboration using Yjs for conflict-free concurrent editing
Integrated chat, rich text pages, customizable databases with multiple views, and file management
Self-hosted deployment with Docker Compose and Kubernetes Helm charts included
Pros
- Complete data ownership and control through self-hosting
- Works offline with automatic background synchronization
- Real-time collaborative editing without merge conflicts
- All-in-one platform eliminates need for multiple tools
Considerations
- Requires infrastructure setup (Postgres, Redis, S3-compatible storage)
- Web app currently in early preview with potential browser compatibility issues
- Cloud pricing not yet announced for beta servers
- Messages and file operations do not support concurrent editing
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Fit guide
Great for
- Teams requiring full data privacy and control over collaboration tools
- Organizations needing offline-capable workspace solutions
- Development teams comfortable with self-hosted infrastructure
- Projects combining documentation, task management, and team communication
Not ideal when
- Users seeking fully managed SaaS without infrastructure responsibilities
- Teams requiring enterprise support and guaranteed uptime SLAs
- Organizations needing extensive third-party integrations immediately
- Non-technical users uncomfortable with self-hosting requirements
How teams use it
Remote Team Knowledge Base
Centralize documentation, wikis, and project notes with real-time editing while maintaining full data control through self-hosting
Offline-First Field Operations
Enable field teams to access and update project data, chat history, and files without internet connectivity, syncing automatically when online
Privacy-Compliant Project Management
Manage tasks using kanban boards, calendars, and custom databases while keeping sensitive data on-premises for regulatory compliance
Multi-Workspace Organization
Connect to multiple self-hosted servers from one app, separating client projects, internal teams, and departments into isolated workspaces
Tech snapshot
TypeScript99%
Smarty1%
HTML1%
CSS1%
Dockerfile1%
JavaScript1%
Frequently asked questions
What infrastructure is required to self-host Colanode?
You need Postgres with the pgvector extension, Redis (or compatible services like Valkey), S3-compatible storage, and the Colanode server Docker image. Docker Compose and Kubernetes Helm charts are provided in the repository.
How does the local-first architecture work?
All changes are saved to a local SQLite database first, then synced to the server via background processes. Data reads happen locally for instant access, allowing you to work offline and sync when connectivity returns.
Can multiple users edit the same document simultaneously?
Yes, pages and database records use Conflict-free Replicated Data Types (CRDTs) powered by Yjs to support real-time concurrent editing without conflicts. Messages and file operations use simpler database tables without concurrent edit support.
Are the cloud beta servers free permanently?
The EU and US cloud servers are currently free during beta testing. Pricing details will be announced in the future, but self-hosting remains available under the Apache-2.0 license.
What's the difference between web and desktop apps?
Both connect to the same servers and offer identical functionality. The desktop app provides optimal performance, while the web app offers instant access without installation. The web app is currently in early preview and may have browser compatibility issues.
Project at a glance
Active- Stars
- 4,351
- Watchers
- 4,351
- Forks
- 234
LicenseApache-2.0
Repo age1 year old
Last commit2 days ago
Self-hostingSupported
Primary languageTypeScript
Last synced 46 minutes ago