A practical local-first checklist
HuffmanStacks LLC | Field notes | 2026-11-01

A starting point for deciding what should run locally and what needs a connected service.

Decide where the data belongs
Classify each input and output before choosing a provider. A local interface can still send information to a remote service; trace the actual route.

Check the offline boundary
Specify which functions must work without internet, which can queue work, and which must clearly stop. Test those conditions rather than relying on a product label.

Plan the machine lifecycle
Account for installation, runtime dependencies, storage, backups, updates, export, and uninstall. Local-first software still needs operations.

Use connections deliberately
Connect approved services for specific purposes. Keep credentials outside source, minimize permissions, and document how a connection can be revoked.

IN PRACTICE
For an offline design studio, theme exploration can remain available without internet while an optional publishing step clearly requires an authorized connection.

WORKING CHECKLIST
[ ] Decide where the data belongs: record the decision and its evidence.
[ ] Check the offline boundary: record the decision and its evidence.
[ ] Plan the machine lifecycle: record the decision and its evidence.
[ ] Use connections deliberately: record the decision and its evidence.

General engineering guidance, not a certification or service agreement.
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