About:
Basic Machines
We build tools that bridge human thinking and AI capabilities.
The name Basic Machines comes from computational theory, where complex systems can be built by combining simple, understandable parts. This concept represents our core value: powerful technology doesn't have to be complicated or controlled by commercial gatekeepers.
In a world where cloud services and proprietary systems dominate, we saw a need for open tools that give people genuine ownership of their digital experiences. We believe technology should enhance human agency, not diminish it.
Our journey began with Basic Components, where we explored how AI collaboration could help build simpler, more accessible web development tools. Using Large Language Models (first ChatGPT, then Claude), we created a system that makes sophisticated server-side components available to anyone without massive frameworks or a mess of library dependencies.
We then built Basic Memory, applying the same principles to knowledge management: a system that maintains the immediacy of AI conversations while creating durable knowledge structures that grow over time, all stored in open formats you control.
The future is unwritten, as Joe Strummer reminded us, but it's not undefined. It emerges from the patterns we choose to follow, the tools we choose to build, and the values we choose to embody. Basic Machines is one small effort to create tools that enable more people to write their own futures.
How We Build
Our approach to software development.
User Data Control
We store your data locally by default and use standard formats so you maintain complete ownership.
- Local-first storage by default
- Human-readable formats
- No vendor lock-in
Future-Proof Storage
We use standard Markdown files and knowledge graphs to ensure your data remains accessible regardless of what software you use.
- Standard file formats
- Knowledge graph representation
- Compatibility with existing tools
Human-AI Teamwork
We design tools that create two-way knowledge flow between humans and AI, making both more effective together.
- Natural language interfaces
- Human-readable + machine-readable formats
- Bidirectional knowledge flow
Open Source
We develop our code in public repositories with open source licenses so anyone can inspect, modify, and contribute.
- Open source codebase
- Public development process
- Community contributions welcome
Simple & Efficient
We build lightweight tools with minimal dependencies that run well on your computer without requiring heavy cloud infrastructure.
- Minimalist dependencies
- Standard technologies
- Easy self-hosting
Regular Updates
We release incremental improvements based on user feedback rather than chasing flashy features that compromise stability.
- User-centered feedback loops
- Incremental development approach
- Balancing stability with innovation
Current Projects
We're focused on building tools that enhance human-AI collaboration while maintaining user ownership and agency.
Basic Memory
A local-first knowledge management system that builds a semantic graph from standard Markdown files, enabling persistent memory across conversations with LLMs.
Basic Components
Server-side components for modern web applications built with JinjaX, Alpine.js, and Tailwind CSS, with support for htmx - reducing dependencies while providing a React-like component experience.
Basic Foundation
A Python framework for building full-stack SaaS applications with user authentication, APIs, and user management using FastAPI, PostgreSQL, and HTMX.
Future Directions
We're exploring several areas for future development, all focused on enhancing the relationship between humans and intelligent tools.
Enhanced Knowledge Representation
Building more sophisticated knowledge graph structures while maintaining the simplicity of the interface.
Collaborative Knowledge Tools
Exploring ways for teams to build shared knowledge bases while maintaining local-first principles.
AI-Enhanced Creative Tools
Developing tools that augment human creativity through collaborative interaction with AI systems.
Get in Touch
Questions about our projects or interested in collaboration? We'd love to hear from you.