eCMS

This page explains what eCMS is, how it works and when it makes sense to use it.

Overview

eCMS is a self-contained, single-page app for working with small datasets that you want to keep under your own control. You define a schema (fields and types), enter records and optionally encrypt everything into a single portable file.

Local-first: all logic runs in your browser, client-side only.
Schema driven: add string, number, boolean, list and file fields.
Secure storage option: encrypt complete datasets with a password into one .dat file that you can store wherever you like.
Portable: export or import as readable JSON or encrypted files.
Offline by design: use the Download link once to save a single HTML file that contains the full eCMS app; opening that file in your browser gives you the complete experience without a network connection.
Donationware: free to use; pay what you want if it is useful.

Privacy and security

eCMS does not talk to a backend server. When you open a dataset, the file is read in your browser and kept in memory for the current session. The app:

does not upload your data to any external service;
does not include analytics or tracking pixels;
only persists data when you export to JSON or encrypted format.

For encrypted files, the browser Web Crypto API is used (AES-GCM with PBKDF2 key derivation). This is strong, modern crypto and a solid fit for personal secrets, internal notes and other confidential data that you want to keep close.

Like any browser-based tool, overall security still depends on your device, browser and password hygiene. Use a strong passphrase for encrypted datasets and keep backups in locations you trust.

Saving and loading data

Save JSON: exports { schema, records } as readable JSON. Best for integration, version control or debugging.
Open JSON: imports a previously exported JSON file.
Save encrypted: exports an encrypted .dat file using a password.
Open encrypted: decrypts and loads a .dat file with the password.

JSON is transparent but not protected. The encrypted format is ideal for passwords, personal information and any dataset you want to treat like a digital safe.

Working with the schema

Open the Schema view from the header.
Add or remove fields as needed and choose the appropriate type for each field.
Use Export schema to copy the schema definition as JSON.
Use Import schema to paste a schema definition and rebuild your dataset structure.

The internal ID field is reserved and handled automatically by eCMS.

Recommended use cases

Personal secret notebook: passwords, recovery codes, license keys, notes about important accounts.
Private trackers (books, movies, ideas, workouts, experiments).
Small internal reference lists for a team or project.
Lightweight inventory or asset lists with optional file attachments.
Simple contact lists or lead overviews without needing a full CRM.

For very large datasets, complex relations or multi-user access, a dedicated database-backed system will scale better. You can still use eCMS alongside those systems as a small encrypted sidecar for the really sensitive bits.

Typical workflow

If you want an offline copy, first use the Download link and save the generated HTML file (for example eCMS.html).
Open the eCMS app or your saved HTML file in a browser.
Design or adjust your schema: which fields do you need for this dataset?
Add records, including optional file attachments.
Export as JSON for backups or integration, and as encrypted .dat for private storage.
Later, open those files again in eCMS (online or from your saved HTML file) and continue where you left off.

Donationware

eCMS is provided as-is, free of charge. If it becomes part of your workflow and saves you time, you can support its development: