Short Introduction
Kan is a promising new open-source alternative to Trello built for self-hosting. While still in early development, it supports public boards, private workspaces, and has Docker support in progress. This tool aims to solve the problem of limited, non-flexible Kanban tools by allowing full control over your data.
Simplified One-Line Flowchart
Visit GitHub ➔ Clone & Configure with Docker ➔ Self-Host Kan ➔ Share Public Boards or Collaborate Privately
Easy Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Clone the GitHub Repository
- Get the full source code:
Step 2: Preview the Live Web Version (Optional)
- See Kan in action before deploying:
Step 3: Check the Roadmap
- See which features are coming soon:
Step 4: Self-Host with Docker (Basic Support Available)
- Use the provided
docker-compose.ymlfile. 
Some variables are undocumented (e.g. POSTGRES_URL,EMAIL_URL).- Docker image is not published yet, but coming soon.
Step 5: Make a Board Public
- Click the “Private” button on any board.
- Your board becomes accessible at:
https://kan.bn/your-workspace/your-board
Step 6: Customize the Board URL
- Click the three-dot menu > “Edit board URL”
Quick Tips (Optional)
Public board sharing is supported- Docker Compose file exists (needs improvements)
No working screenshots or install guide yet- No automation or card templates yet, but planned
License corrected to AGPLv3 from GPLv3 after feedback
Important Notes
- Still in beta — Features like automation, subtasks, and advanced auth (OIDC, SSO) are not yet available.
- Current Limitations:
- No stable Docker image published yet.
- Docker Compose file needs cleanup (uses deprecated syntax, unclear env variables).
- No install script or “one-click” setup.
- Community Feedback Highlights:
Automations like recurring tasks, template-based cards, and triggers are highly requested.
Common complaint: No screenshots, no releases, not production-ready yet.- Several existing open-source competitors were mentioned:
- Vikunja: https://vikunja.io
- WeKan: https://wekan.github.io
- Kanboard: https://kanboard.org
- Planka: https://planka.app (debated if still open-source)
- Nextcloud Deck: https://apps.nextcloud.com/apps/deck
Creator responded positively and plans to fix shortcomings soon.
!