Designers managing moodboards, references, and project briefsneed tools that keep up with their workflow. Here's how Melo and OneNote compare for this specific use case.
What designers need from a productivity tool
Designers deal with moodboards, references, and project briefs daily. The ideal tool for this workflow needs to be fast (no waiting for pages to load), flexible (different projects require different layouts), and smart (AI that understands your specific context). Privacy matters too — designers often handle sensitive information.
Inspiration images, client briefs, and design specs live in different apps
No spatial workspace to arrange references the way your brain works
Design tools handle design, but not the thinking and planning around it
Sharing sensitive client work through cloud tools raises privacy concerns
OneNote for designers
Microsoft's free-form digital notebook. While OneNote is a capable tool, designers often find it limiting when they need to work with multiple content types simultaneously. OneNote's approach works for generic use cases, but the specific demands of moodboards, references, and project briefs require more flexibility.
Melo
OneNote
Platform
Built native for Mac — first-class macOS experience
Cross-platform but Mac version feels like an afterthought
AI
Built-in AI that sees your entire workspace
Copilot integration with limited notebook awareness
Organization
Spatial boards with tiled content — visual and flexible
Notebooks → sections → pages — rigid hierarchy
Sync
Local-first — works offline, data stays on your device
OneDrive sync required — occasional conflicts and slowness
Ecosystem
Standalone — no Microsoft account required
Best with Microsoft 365 subscription
Why designers pick Melo
Melo's spatial canvas mirrors how designers naturally think — visually and spatially. Tile Figma embeds next to client briefs, moodboard images next to copy drafts. Everything stays local on your Mac, so client work stays private.
For designersspecifically, Melo's spatial canvas means you can design a workspace that mirrors how you think about moodboards, references, and project briefs. Tile your key documents, tasks, web references, and AI chat on one board. Switch between project contexts by switching boards. Everything stays local, fast, and private.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Melo good for designers?
Yes. Melo's spatial canvas is particularly well-suited for designers who need to manage moodboards, references, and project briefs. The ability to tile multiple content types on one board means you can see everything relevant to your work without switching apps.
Can I import my data from OneNote?
Melo supports common import formats. While there's no one-click migration from OneNote, you can export your data and bring it into Melo's workspace. The spatial canvas also makes it easy to start fresh — many users prefer building a new spatial workflow from scratch.
What makes Melo better than other tools for designers?
Most tools force you into their structure — linear documents, rigid databases, or text-only editors. Designers need flexibility to arrange moodboards, references, and project briefs in a way that makes sense. Melo's spatial canvas adapts to you, and the AI understands your full context.
Can I use Melo offline?
Absolutely. Since Melo is local-first, your entire workspace works offline. Notes, tasks, canvas arrangement, clipboard history — everything is available without an internet connection. AI features require connectivity.
What platforms does Melo support?
Melo is built exclusively for macOS. It's a native Electron app optimized for the Mac experience — trackpad gestures, keyboard shortcuts, and performance tuned for Apple hardware.