How to Use Focalboard
A beginner-friendly guide to getting started with Focalboard in 2026.
Getting Started: Step by Step
Create your Focalboard account
Visit Focalboard's website and sign up for a free account. You'll need an email address to get started.
Set up your workspace
Once signed in, configure your Focalboard workspace. Set your preferences, invite team members if needed, and customize the interface to match your workflow.
Explore kanban-boards
One of Focalboard's key features is kanban-boards. Navigate to this feature and experiment with it to understand how it fits into your workflow.
Explore table-view
One of Focalboard's key features is table-view. Navigate to this feature and experiment with it to understand how it fits into your workflow.
Explore calendar-view
One of Focalboard's key features is calendar-view. Navigate to this feature and experiment with it to understand how it fits into your workflow.
Integrate with your existing tools
Connect Focalboard with the other tools you use daily. Most integrations can be set up in the settings or integrations panel.
Start using it for real work
Now that you're set up, start using Focalboard for actual tasks. The best way to learn is by doing — don't worry about getting everything perfect right away.
Pro Tips
- Start with the free plan or trial to explore Focalboard's capabilities before committing to a paid subscription.
- Use keyboard shortcuts to speed up your workflow — most tools have extensive shortcut systems.
- Set up team channels or spaces early to keep projects organized as your team grows.
- Check Focalboard's official documentation and community forums for advanced tips and best practices.
- Review your workflow after 2 weeks of use and adjust your setup based on what's working and what isn't.
Key Features to Explore
Alternatives to Consider
If Focalboard isn't the right fit, here are some similar tools:
Ready to Try Focalboard?
Open-source project management tool by Mattermost that serves as a self-hosted alternative to Trello, Notion boards, and Asana, with kanban, table, and calendar views.