Second Brain / Industry term
Local-first
A software design approach that gives each device a usable local copy, supports offline work, and synchronizes collaboration without making the network the only place work can happen.
The local-first principles described by Ink & Switch include fast local interaction, offline availability, multi-device access, collaboration, longevity, privacy, and user control. Local copies may be peers rather than one permanent master, with conflict-resolution logic reconciling changes. Data can live in a database or open format; plain files are one implementation, not the definition.
Builder example
Local-first can improve resilience and ownership while adding synchronization, conflict, encryption, device-loss, and backup complexity. Connecting a cloud AI service may transmit selected local data, so the model path needs its own consent and privacy contract.
Common confusion: Local-first does not mean local-only, one authoritative laptop, or automatic privacy. Sync servers and cloud processing can remain part of the system.