InsightsLM offers a self-hosted, open-source alternative to NotebookLM for users who need to ground AI responses in their own documents. It targets businesses and individuals seeking a customizable, private research tool with features like document chat, verifiable citations, and audio summaries.

How It Works

The application leverages a modern stack with a React/TypeScript frontend (Loveable, Vite, shadcn-ui, Tailwind CSS) and a backend powered by Supabase for database, authentication, and storage, combined with N8N for workflow automation. This architecture allows for flexible data handling and integration, with Supabase Edge Functions triggering N8N workflows via webhooks for document processing and AI interactions.

Quick Start & Requirements

Setup involves creating a Supabase account, forking the GitHub repository, importing into an AI-coding editor like Bolt.new (which links Supabase and deploys Edge Functions), importing N8N workflows from provided JSON files, configuring N8N credentials and webhooks, and adding Supabase secrets. A YouTube video walkthrough is available.

Highlighted Details

• Chat with documents and receive context-aware answers.
• Generate audio summaries from source materials.
• Provides verifiable citations to ensure response accuracy.
• Designed for private, self-hosted deployment.

Maintenance & Community

The project is maintained by "theaiautomators" and encourages community contributions. A community forum is available via their website.

Licensing & Compatibility

The codebase is distributed under the MIT License. However, N8N, a core component for backend automation, is distributed under a Sustainable Use License. This permits free internal business use but may require an N8N Enterprise License for commercial SaaS offerings or public hosting for multiple clients. Alternatives to N8N, such as converting workflows to Supabase Edge Functions, are suggested for commercial use cases.

Limitations & Caveats

The primary caveat relates to the N8N licensing, which may restrict commercial SaaS deployments. Users planning such use cases should consult the N8N license or explore alternative implementation strategies.