decentpatterns
[submission] Download Means Ownership
The Design Problem
Users are so used to their data hosted by centralized platforms that often when provided with the option to own their data, it's unclear what difference it makes.
For local-first web apps, this is a particularly jinxed problem: the browser connotes Internet and onlineness, so when things work offline, it is often not immediately clear or understood.
The Design Solution
Even if your app is working with local data already (browser cache or other location), offer users the option to download their data. Downloading means making data explicit (in files and folders) and gives user control over where to store their data.
Examples
- Fullscreen (https://fullscreen.space/)
Why Choose Download Means Ownership?
Best Practice: How to Implement Download Means Ownership
- Consider creating a corresponding file format. See [Standards Marker].
Potential Problems with Download Means Ownership
The Take Away
Offering a download option can be a radical value proposition in a world where data is siloed.
References & Where to Learn More
This pattern was tested during a sprint in April 2022. How to track this?