My app failed me

Doaily

I made this app because I wanted to share the to-do list system that has helped me stay accountable and get things done.

Download Doaily

I built the app above to help people manage their todos and get things done.

But, it failed me.

Sometimes, I switch my phone to airplane mode just to completely block out distractions and get productive.

But, when I opened Doaily, nothing worked. Nothing even loaded.

My own app left me hanging.

Meanwhile, my Notes app worked. So did my Calendar. All the built-in apps that came with my phone worked.

That's when it hit me.

If I wanted my app to truly serve people, it needed to work offline too. Just like all the other essential apps in my phone.

The offline test

So, a quick way to figure out which apps on your phone are truly essential is to turn off your internet connection and see which ones still work.

The apps that continue to work offline (usually the built-in ones) are the apps that make your phone practical and reliable in any situation, whether you’re online or not. Things like taking photos, jotting down notes, checking your calendar, or using a calculator.

This is not to demonize online-only apps though.

Some of the most transformative tools are online apps that give you platforms to make money, learn new skills, and connect globally. These apps open doors to opportunities that were never possible before and have genuinely improved lives.

However, the offline test reveals something deeper.

The apps that fail offline are often geared toward providing endless entertainment, content, and connection that, while valuable, aren’t always necessary in the moment.

If an app can’t deliver value without an internet connection, ask yourself:

• Is this a tool I rely on or just something I consume?
• Does this app support my goals or does it depend on my constant attention?

Food for thought.

The difference can be subtle, but going offline makes it clear.

Doaily offline

Again, if I wanted my app to truly serve people, it needed to work offline too.

Because productivity shouldn't pause because you're all of a sudden not connected to the internet.

Your goals, your tasks, your momentum—all need to be accessible whether you're connected or not.

So...

I drank a lot of coffee and now Doaily works even when you're offline!

It's not a flashy update by any means, but it makes a huge difference.

Although… I did add a little flash to the update. Now, you’ll see a blast of confetti every time you swipe right to complete a task. Ha!!

Make sure to update to get the latest changes :)

Take it easy.

— Renz