Whiteboard

Introduction

Whiteboard is a custom-built productivity app designed to give users a limitless space to plan, map, and organize their ideas. It was born from a need for an offline-first tool that doesn’t rely on cloud logins or subscriptions—just pure, local control. Users can drag, drop, and organize elements like sticky notes, files, checklists, and links in a visual canvas.

Problem Statement

Most modern planning tools are cloud-based, restrictive, or locked behind paywalls. Milanote offers flexibility but comes with limitations in its free version. I wanted to create a tool that gave users complete freedom—no account needed, no storage limits, and fully portable on a USB stick or online file transfer.

Design & Development

Whiteboard was built using vanilla HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to ensure maximum compatibility and fast load times. The project file system is JSON-based, with each workspace saved and opened like a document file (.zpf). The UI is modular and optimized for drag-and-drop performance across browsers without external libraries.

Tech Stack

HTML/CSS/JavaScript – Built from classic web technologies to ensure compatibility and performance.
Canvas & Grid System – Provides a scrollable and zoomable workspace for users to freely move elements around.
FileReader API – Allows users to export and open project files locally.

Design Philosophy

The design prioritizes clarity and minimalism while enabling flexible layouts. The interface mimics physical whiteboards—users can freely position items, connect ideas, and organize information visually rather than hierarchically.

Data Handling

Whiteboard stores nothing by default. Projects must be saved manually using the built-in export system, ensuring total user control. This makes it ideal for local workflows and privacy-conscious users.

Key Features

Offline-Only

Works entirely as a local application without cloud sync. You control your files, saved as local project files.

Flexible Canvas

Drag and drop text boxes, to-do lists, and images freely across an infinite canvas—ideal for brainstorming and mind maps.

Manual Project Save & Load

Users can save and reopen their boards manually using a .zpf file, no surprises.

Portable

Runs offline from any device—just keep the app folder and your .zpf files on a USB or hard drive.

Final Result

Whiteboard offers a unique local-first alternative to traditional project planning tools. It's perfect for creatives, developers, students, and teams that prefer full ownership of their workspace and data. The app is fast, flexible, and doesn’t require an internet connection to function.