From Frustration to Creation in Nights (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Technology editor Harry McCracken grew tired of adapting his writing workflow to mainstream word processors. He turned to Anthropic’s Claude AI to create Doolee Write, a web-based tool designed specifically for his needs. Launched just six weeks ago, this personal project has already reshaped his productivity, making him estimate a 20% efficiency gain and far greater satisfaction with his daily writing routine.
From Frustration to Creation in Nights
McCracken had experimented with numerous word processors over decades, from vintage programs like Scripsit and Pfs:Write to modern staples such as Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and Quip. None perfectly matched his requirements for handling transcripts, outlines, hyperlinks, and focus tools. Using what he termed “vibe-coding,” he instructed Claude to build the core features rapidly.
The process unfolded over a few intense evenings. Essential elements materialized quickly, followed by refinements until his wishlist was complete. Doolee Write emerged as an extension of his earlier AI-built note-taking app, Doolee, proving that custom software could address niche gaps left by giants.
Tailored Tools for Complex Writing Projects
McCracken’s documents often incorporate supplementary files like text, PDFs, and audio alongside hyperlinked content destined for WordPress. Doolee Write bundles these extras seamlessly and features a robust outliner ideal for chunked narratives, such as his oral history of Apple’s founding years. A built-in Pomodoro timer enforces focus sessions, drawing from established productivity techniques.
Link embedding and HTML export functions exceed those in standard apps. Even distractions found a place: four mini-games inspired by Tetris, Breakout, blackjack, and Othello keep breaks contained within the app. This setup drew partial inspiration from Scrivener but customized placements and integrations for optimal flow.
AI Done Right: Optional and Integrated
Mainstream tools like Word and Docs prioritize aggressive AI features, such as summarization, which McCracken found intrusive since he authored the documents himself. Doolee Write integrates AI selectively – a research tool akin to NotebookLM, a Grammarly-like coach, and Otter-style transcription – all accessible via APIs but hidden until needed. This approach keeps assistance helpful without overwhelming the interface.
Such productivity AI thrives when user-controlled, available on demand rather than dominating the experience. McCracken emphasized that thoughtful implementation elevates tools beyond gimmicks.
Simplicity and Innovation Over Feature Bloat
Doolee Write skips standard options like image insertion and complex formatting, not from technical limits but deliberate choice. Unused features distract, McCracken realized, after stripping them away for a cleaner interface. Sidebars house most controls, with a distraction-free mode for pure writing.
Corporate products remain stagnant – Word’s Ribbon design frozen for 20 years, Docs evoking 1990s aesthetics – to appeal broadly. Personal projects allow bold changes, like sidebar-centric navigation, fostering innovation unattainable by mass-market developers.
The Real Costs and Lasting Rewards
Hosting Doolee Write proved free on existing infrastructure, but Claude usage incurred hundreds in overage fees after initial credits. McCracken retains subscriptions to Word and Docs for collaboration and revisions, absent in his solo-focused tool. The SaaSpocalypse fear of custom apps overlooks motivation: crafting superior personal solutions, not mere cost-cutting.
Self-reliance extended to backups, redundancy, and auto-exports, mitigating data risks better than assumed cloud reliability. While email or spreadsheets might tempt future projects, Doolee Write stands as a productivity pinnacle.
Key Takeaways
- Custom AI-built tools excel by prioritizing user-specific features over universal appeal.
- Minimalism reduces distractions, enhancing focus and joy in daily tasks.
- Personal innovation often surpasses corporate caution, especially with accessible AI coding.
Vibe-coding democratizes software creation, turning vague ideas into functional apps swiftly and changing workflows profoundly. McCracken likened it to finally wearing custom clothes after years in off-the-rack fits. What custom tool would you build to transform your work? Share your thoughts in the comments.
