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Storage Mode Refactor - Exclusive Storage (No Hybrid)

Summary​

Refactored CAIPE UI from hybrid storage (MongoDB + localStorage simultaneously) to exclusive storage mode (MongoDB OR localStorage, never both).

Motivation​

Before:

  • App always used localStorage (via Zustand persist)
  • Also synced to MongoDB if available
  • Confusing dual-write behavior
  • Users didn't know where their data lived
  • Old conversations could be in localStorage, new ones in MongoDB

After:

  • Clean separation: MongoDB XOR localStorage
  • Storage mode determined by MONGODB_URI env variable
  • No confusion about data location
  • Clear UI indicators

Benefits​

For Users​

✅ Clear data location - No confusion about where conversations live ✅ Predictable behavior - One storage mode, not two ✅ Visual indicators - Always know what mode you're in ✅ No surprises - Data doesn't mysteriously appear/disappear

For Developers​

✅ Simpler logic - No dual-write complexity ✅ Fewer bugs - No sync race conditions ✅ Easier testing - Test one mode at a time ✅ Better performance - No unnecessary localStorage writes in MongoDB mode

For Admins​

✅ MongoDB is source of truth - No localStorage confusion ✅ Better analytics - All data in one place ✅ Team features work - Sharing, collaboration enabled

Testing Strategy​

localStorage Mode​

  • Conversations persist in browser
  • Conversations NOT sent to server
  • Sidebar shows "Local Storage Mode"
  • Admin features disabled
  • Works without MongoDB configured

MongoDB Mode​

  • Conversations saved to MongoDB
  • localStorage NOT used for persistence
  • Sidebar shows "MongoDB Mode"
  • Admin features enabled
  • Sharing/teams work

Mode Switching​

  • localStorage → MongoDB: Data migrates cleanly
  • MongoDB → localStorage: Graceful fallback
  • No data loss
  • Clear error messages

Rollout Plan​

Phase 1: Internal Testing ✅ (Current)​

  • Test with dev team
  • Verify both modes work
  • Check migration paths

Phase 2: Staged Rollout​

  • Enable for power users first
  • Monitor for issues
  • Gather feedback

Phase 3: Full Deployment​

  • Update all environments
  • Update documentation
  • Train support team

Support​

Common Issues​

Q: My conversations disappeared! A: Check storage mode. If you switched from MongoDB → localStorage, you need to re-enable MongoDB.

Q: I see old conversations but not new ones A: You may have switched storage modes. Check .env.local and restart.

Q: Can I use both at once? A: No. Exclusive storage mode prevents confusion.