A few weeks ago, I shared my "Really Free Resume" template—a simple, no-build JSON-to-HTML project. The goal was simple: Break the shackles of predatory resume builders that hold your PDF hostage behind a $20 subscription.
But that project had a high barrier to entry. Not everyone wants to edit a JSON file in a text editor. So, I took it a step further.
I’ve built a full-featured web application that gives you the convenience of a modern UI with the privacy of a local text file.
Check it out: Really Free Resumes
The "Anti-SaaS" Philosophy
Most "free" tools online are just data-harvesting machines in disguise. They want your email, your work history, and eventually, your credit card.
I wanted to build a "For Good" project—something that has a real impact on people's lives without asking for anything in return. That meant designing an architecture that physically cannot steal your data.
1. Zero-Backend Architecture
There is no database. There is no API. There is no tracking.
The entire site is a collection of static files hosted on Netlify. When you "save" a resume, it isn't sent to a server; it stays on your device.
2. Privacy-First Storage (IndexedDB)
Using the power of the modern browser, the app uses IndexedDB to store multiple resume profiles.
- Offline Support: Since the logic and data are local, it works even if your internet drops.
- Security: Your professional history never leaves your browser’s sandbox.
3. Data Sovereignty
You can download your entire profile as a resume.json file at any time. This ensures you are never "locked in." If my website disappears tomorrow, your data is still yours, in a standard format, ready to be used elsewhere.
The Tech Stack: Lean and Mean
I chose tools that prioritize speed and simplicity:
- Alpine.js: Handles the reactive UI, form state, and live preview logic without the overhead of a massive framework like React.
- Tailwind CSS: For a clean, professional aesthetic that looks great on both screen and print.
- IndexedDB: The "Local Database" that makes multi-profile support possible.
- Font Awesome & Google Fonts: To ensure the output is "Recruiter-Ready."
Key Features
- Live Preview: See your changes in real-time as you type.
- Multi-Profile Support: Tailor different resumes for different roles (e.g., "Software Engineer" vs. "QA Manager").
- PDF Export: Uses browser-native printing with optimized CSS for a pixel-perfect, professional document.
- JSON Import/Export: For easy backups and cross-device portability.
Why This Matters
In a world of "AI-driven" everything and massive data breaches, we need more tools that treat users like humans, not "users."
Whether you're a seasoned developer with 15 years of experience or a student looking for your first internship, you shouldn't have to pay or trade your privacy for a professional resume.
I’m building this as a labor of love—a way to provide value and help others in their job-seeking experience.
Give it a spin and let me know what you think!
https://really-free-resumes.netlify.app/
Thanks to Netlify for making this possible. They provide a free plan - so I do not have to worry about monetizing or server costs. They also have an Open Source Plan for OSS projects like this. Here is my source code if you are interested. Next up, I want to work on adding different layouts and themes.
Top comments (2)
Really love the zero-backend approach. I have been building something similar -- a collection of 90+ browser-based utility tools (image converters, PDF tools, text formatters, etc.) at beginthings.com and the privacy-first, local-processing philosophy is exactly right. Users should not have to upload their files to some random server just to convert an image or compress a PDF.
The IndexedDB storage for profiles is a smart call too. Most people do not realize how powerful the browser has become as a platform. You can do so much without ever touching a server.
One thing I have noticed building local-first tools: people are genuinely surprised when you tell them nothing leaves their browser. That trust factor alone drives a lot of organic word of mouth. Keep building this way -- the web needs more of it.
Well done !!