# Colanode — Open-Source Local-First Slack and Notion Alternative

> A self-hosted collaboration platform combining real-time team chat, a rich document editor, and a knowledge base in a single local-first application that keeps all data on your own infrastructure.

## Install

Save in your project root:

# Colanode — Open-Source Local-First Slack and Notion Alternative

## Quick Use
```bash
git clone https://github.com/colanode/colanode.git
cd colanode
docker compose up -d
# Open http://localhost:3000
```

## Introduction
Colanode is an open-source workspace platform that merges team messaging with a collaborative document editor. Built with a local-first architecture using CRDTs, it ensures your data stays on your machines while enabling real-time collaboration across your team.

## What Colanode Does
- Provides Slack-style channels and direct messaging for team communication
- Includes a Notion-like block editor for creating and organizing documents
- Syncs data in real time using CRDTs for conflict-free collaboration
- Stores all data locally in SQLite with optional server sync
- Offers a desktop app via Electron alongside the web interface

## Architecture Overview
Colanode uses a local-first design where each client maintains a full copy of workspace data in a local SQLite database. Real-time synchronization between clients is powered by Yjs CRDTs, ensuring edits merge without conflicts. The server acts as a sync relay and persistence layer rather than the sole source of truth.

## Self-Hosting & Configuration
- Deploy the server component via Docker Compose
- Configure authentication and workspace settings through environment variables
- Set up the Electron desktop app for offline-capable access
- Data persists in SQLite on each client and the sync server
- Back up by snapshotting the server database volume

## Key Features
- Local-first architecture: works offline and syncs when connected
- Real-time collaborative editing with CRDT-based conflict resolution
- Unified workspace combining chat, documents, and knowledge management
- Cross-platform desktop app built with Electron
- Full data ownership with no dependency on external cloud services

## Comparison with Similar Tools
- **Slack** — cloud-only proprietary chat; Colanode is self-hosted with built-in docs
- **Notion** — cloud-hosted workspace; Colanode offers local-first data ownership
- **Mattermost** — self-hosted chat focused on messaging; Colanode adds a rich document editor
- **AppFlowy** — Notion alternative without integrated chat; Colanode combines both

## FAQ
**Q: Does it work offline?**
A: Yes. The local-first architecture stores data in SQLite on each client. Changes sync automatically when connectivity is restored.

**Q: How does real-time collaboration work?**
A: Colanode uses Yjs CRDTs to merge concurrent edits without conflicts across all connected clients.

**Q: Can I migrate from Slack or Notion?**
A: There is no built-in importer, but the open data format (SQLite) makes custom migration scripts feasible.

**Q: What platforms are supported?**
A: Web browser, plus Electron desktop apps for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

## Sources
- https://github.com/colanode/colanode
- https://github.com/colanode/colanode#readme

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Source: https://tokrepo.com/en/workflows/asset-260ac100
Author: AI Open Source