Forma
Lead Developer · 2024
Year
2024
Role
Lead Developer
Focus
React Native, Node.js, PostgreSQL
About the project
Forma started as a simple task manager and evolved into a full collaboration suite for creative agencies. I led the development of the React Native mobile app and the Node.js backend, implementing real-time collaboration via CRDTs for conflict-free editing, offline-first architecture with background sync, and a custom asset management pipeline for handling large design files. The app now supports over 200 active teams and processes thousands of file uploads daily.
What needed to change
Creative teams needed to collaborate on projects with large files (50MB+ PSDs) while working from unreliable connections in the field. Existing tools like Trello and Asana weren't built for asset-heavy workflows.
How it was approached
Built offline-first architecture using CRDTs for conflict-free real-time collaboration. Implemented chunked uploads with resume capability for large files. Designed a custom React Native UI optimized for one-handed mobile use.
What it led to
200+ active teams, 10,000+ daily file uploads, 99.7% sync reliability. Featured in ProductHunt's top 10 for productivity tools.
