Observed arrival · 2026-11-02
Tools for Conviviality puts software through an Illich-shaped test
A directory of independent software, with tools scored out of 30 against six questions drawn from Ivan Illich’s ideas about conviviality.
○Open
⊠Login
$Paid
†Ads
✦Pretty
●Pro
◎Niche
◉Human
⚑Risk
ƒJS
- For
- People seeking independent, privacy-respecting software alternatives
- Worth noticing
- LocalSend scores 29/30, while Proton Pass scores 21/30, under the same six-question rubric.
Field notes
Entries are arranged around tasks—such as moving files between devices, translating without sending text away, or finding directions without being tracked—rather than a conventional software-category taxonomy. Each listed product carries a score out of 30; the page links to a separate explanation of its six questions and includes a “Show me another” control for a random pick. The visible collection includes LocalSend, ESPHome, Thunderbird, and VLC.
Observed signals
Read the marks
Editorial observations of this landing page, not a rating.
○OpenPublic substance visible
✦PrettyNotable craft visible
●ProPolished or operationally mature
◎NicheUnusually specific use
One card from the complete issue