The Next Generation of Intake
Terra is an experimental platform exploring how modern cloud primitives can transform government intake infrastructure. We’re testing a hypothesis:Can we build government forms that are faster, more secure, and easier to deploy by leveraging serverless computing, edge networks, and composable authentication?
The Experiment
Terra builds upon lessons learned from Tideswell, our production platform that currently powers intake for programs like child care subsidies, rental assistance, and housing applications. While Tideswell is robust and battle-tested, Terra allows us to explore what’s possible with newer architectural patterns. We’re specifically investigating:Identity-First
Can composable auth (WorkOS) simplify enterprise SSO while reducing integration complexity?
Zero-Trust Data
Can Row Level Security push authorization into the database layer, reducing application risk?
Instant Deployments
Can edge computing and serverless reduce time-to-launch for new programs?
What We’re Learning
Terra isn’t a replacement for Tideswell—it’s a laboratory. Each architectural decision is a bet we’re actively evaluating:| Question | Approach | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Can forms be defined as recursive JSON trees? | Zod schemas with discriminated unions | Testing |
| Can file storage be truly zero-trust? | Private buckets + signed URLs only | Testing |
| Can we decouple identity from the database? | WorkOS auth + local user sync | Testing |
| Can emails be brandable without external services? | React Email + Resend | Testing |
| Can drag-and-drop simplify form organization? | @dnd-kit + folder system | Testing |
| Can address autocomplete improve data quality? | Smarty Streets + verified badges | Testing |
Who This Is For
This handbook is for engineers working on Terra. It documents:- Architecture: The tech stack and why we chose each component
- Decisions: ADRs explaining the “why” behind major choices
- Guides: How to set up, extend, and contribute to the codebase
Tech Stack
Next.js, Supabase, WorkOS, Doppler, and the full toolchain
Architecture Decisions
ADRs for form schemas, storage, identity, and security
Local Setup
Get Terra running on your machine with Doppler or .env
Authentication
RBAC, deep linking, and fail-secure session management
Security
XSS prevention, path traversal protection, and open redirect defense
Public Pages
Landing pages and form pages for applicants
Design Principles
Accessibility First
Accessibility First
Government forms must work for everyone. We follow WCAG 2.1 AA standards and test with screen readers. Every interaction is keyboard-navigable.
Multi-Language by Default
Multi-Language by Default
Forms support unlimited languages through I18nString objects—every label, placeholder, and error message can be translated. No plugins required.
White-Label Ready
White-Label Ready
Agencies customize logos, colors, and email templates. Terra becomes invisible—it’s just “their” portal.
Offline-Capable (Future)
Offline-Capable (Future)
We’re exploring draft saving and progressive submission for applicants with unreliable internet.