Tana (software)

Tana (software). Tana is a notetaking software and personal knowledge management application designed around a flexible, node graph-based structure. It combines elements of outliners, databases, and artificial intelligence to help users organize information. The platform is developed by Tana Inc., a company founded by former employees of Evernote and Miro.

Overview

Tana operates on a graph database model where every piece of information, called a "node," can be freely connected. This structure is heavily inspired by concepts from Roam Research and Logseq, emphasizing bidirectional linking and a block editor. Unlike traditional word processors like Microsoft Word, Tana treats all content as structured data, allowing users to apply "supertags" that transform notes into customizable database entries. The interface is a single-page application accessible via web browsers and mobile apps for iOS and Android.

Features

Core features include a powerful query language for filtering and organizing tagged information, similar to tools like Notion. Its "supertags" enable users to define their own data models, creating fields and views akin to an Airtable or Coda within a note. The integrated artificial intelligence assistant, leveraging models from OpenAI, can generate, summarize, and connect content. Real-time collaborative editing allows multiple users to work simultaneously, and the platform supports Markdown and API integrations with services like Slack and Google Calendar.

Development and history

Tana was founded in Oslo, Norway by Stian Håklev and Erik Bøhler, who previously worked at Evernote and Miro. The company conducted a private beta testing phase starting in 2021, engaging with communities from Roam Research and Obsidian. A public launch followed in October 2022 at the PKM Summit conference. Development is guided by principles from the Zettelkasten method and Getting Things Done, with ongoing updates focused on the query language and mobile app performance. Funding has been provided by venture capital firms including Atomico and Creandum.

Reception and impact

Initial reviews from publications like Wired and TechCrunch highlighted its potential for complex personal knowledge management workflows, particularly among researchers and software developers. It has gained a following in communities centered on tools like Roam Research and Logseq. Critics, including some writing for The Verge, have noted a steep learning curve compared to simpler apps like Google Keep. Its impact is most noted in niche professional circles, influencing development in other notetaking software platforms.

Comparison with similar tools

Compared to Roam Research and Logseq, Tana offers more structured database capabilities via its "supertags," positioning it closer to Notion. However, unlike Notion, it prioritizes a node graph and bidirectional linking foundation. Versus traditional outliners like Workflowy, Tana provides deeper query language and artificial intelligence integration. It lacks the local-file, markdown-based approach of Obsidian and the simplicity of Evernote, instead opting for a proprietary, cloud-centric system similar to Craft.

Category:Notetaking software Category:Personal knowledge management Category:Web applications Category:Software companies of Norway