Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common questions
About the Software
What does "local-first" mean?
Your data is stored on your device, not on our servers. The apps work offline, you don't need an internet connection, and we never see your business data. It's like software used to work before everything moved to the cloud.
Is my data really private?
Yes. SimpleSuite apps store data in your browser's localStorage or in local files. We have no servers collecting your information. We literally cannot see your contacts, invoices, or anything else you enter.
What happens if your company disappears?
Your apps keep working. Since everything runs locally, you're not dependent on our servers. Your data is in standard formats (JSON, CSV) that you can export anytime. This is a feature, not a bug.
Do the apps work offline?
Yes. Once loaded, SimpleSuite apps work without an internet connection. Perfect for job sites, travel, or spotty wifi.
Using the Apps
Can I use SimpleSuite on multiple computers?
Yes, your license covers all devices you personally own. However, since data is stored locally, each device has its own separate data. Use the export/import feature to move data between devices, or subscribe to Cloud Sync for automatic syncing.
What if I switch browsers?
Each browser has its own localStorage, so your data won't automatically appear in a new browser. Export your data from the old browser and import it into the new one. Takes about 30 seconds.
What if I clear my browser data?
If you clear localStorage, your SimpleSuite data goes with it. This is why we built the export feature and added reminder banners. Export regularly and keep backups somewhere safe.
Can I use this on my phone or tablet?
Yes. SimpleSuite apps are web-based and work on mobile browsers. The interface adapts to smaller screens.
How do I back up my data?
Every app has an Export button (usually in Settings). Click it to download a JSON file containing all your data. Save that file somewhere safe—cloud storage, external drive, wherever you keep important stuff.
Purchasing & Licenses
Is this a subscription?
No. Individual apps and bundles are one-time purchases. You pay once, you own it forever. Cloud Sync is an optional subscription ($19/month) if you want automatic syncing across devices.
What's included with my purchase?
The app itself, plus free updates for life. If we fix bugs or add features, you get them automatically. Major new versions (like SimpleSuite 2.0 someday) may be separate, but we'll offer upgrade discounts.
Can I try before I buy?
The free tools (Price-per-Mile Calculator, Dashboard) are fully functional—try those to get a feel for how we build software. For paid apps, we offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can buy with confidence.
Do bundles include future apps?
No, bundles include the specific apps listed at the time of purchase. Future apps are purchased separately. The Complete Suite includes all current apps but not future releases.
Can I upgrade from individual apps to a bundle?
Email us. We'll work out a fair upgrade price based on what you've already paid.
Cloud Sync (Optional)
Do I need Cloud Sync?
No. Every app works completely without it. Cloud Sync is for people who want automatic syncing across multiple devices (like a laptop and phone) without manually exporting/importing.
Is my data encrypted?
Yes. Cloud Sync data is encrypted in transit and at rest. We can see that data exists but we don't access or analyze it.
Can I cancel Cloud Sync anytime?
Yes. Cancel anytime from app settings. Your apps keep working—you just lose the sync feature. Your data stays on your devices.
SimpleAI (Optional Add-On)
What is SimpleAI?
SimpleAI is an optional add-on that connects your SimpleSuite apps to AI for insights—pattern detection, predictions, summaries, and more. It's a bridge between your apps and AI providers like Claude, GPT, Gemini, or local models. Read the full explanation →
Do I need SimpleAI to use SimpleSuite?
No. All SimpleSuite apps work perfectly without it. SimpleAI is for users who want AI-powered insights from their data. If you don't need that, don't buy it.
How much does AI usage cost?
You pay your AI provider directly—we don't mark it up. A typical query costs fractions of a cent ($0.001-0.01). Heavy users might spend $5-10/month. If you use Ollama (runs locally on your computer), it's completely free.
Is my data safe when using AI?
Your data goes directly from your computer to your chosen AI provider—we never see it. If you want maximum privacy, use Ollama: everything runs on your machine and nothing leaves.
Which AI provider should I use?
Claude (Anthropic) — Best overall reasoning and quality.
GPT-4 (OpenAI) — Solid all-around, widely used.
Gemini (Google) — Good value, competitive pricing.
Groq — Extremely fast responses.
Ollama — 100% local, completely private, free to run.
What do I need to use SimpleAI?
An API key from your chosen provider (get one from their website—usually takes 2 minutes). For Ollama, you just need to install it on your computer. SimpleAI itself is a one-time $49 purchase.
Technical
What browsers are supported?
Any modern browser: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge. We recommend keeping your browser updated. Internet Explorer is not supported.
Is there a desktop app?
Currently, SimpleSuite runs in your web browser. We may offer downloadable desktop versions in the future, but the browser-based apps are fully functional.
Can I import data from other software?
Most apps support CSV import for common data like contacts. For specific migrations (from QuickBooks, Excel, etc.), email us and we'll help if we can.
How much data can the apps store?
Browser localStorage typically allows 5-10MB per domain, which is thousands of contacts, invoices, etc. If you're hitting limits, Cloud Sync removes this restriction.
Support
How do I get help?
Email [email protected]. We're a small operation so response times vary, but we read everything and help where we can.
What's "Priority Support" in the Complete Suite?
Your emails go to the front of the queue. Same inbox, faster response.
Still have questions? [email protected]