No matter how divided we are on issues, with all our differences of opinions and perspectives, at the end of the day, we are just a collection of data!

Data is everything in today’s world, even Santa works based on the data he has.

Similarly, companies need data to make crucial decisions and need the collected data in a single place. This has been made easy with no-code database tools.

Let us understand how no-code tools can help you build a robust database system.

What are no-code database tools?

A database is the collection of information that has been grouped and organised in a structured manner on a computer system. With no code database tools, it becomes accessible for everyone including the non-technical folks to create, manage, and utilise information as compared to the traditional way of building a database with the help of a developer.

We are already familiar with how no-code platforms ease software development for companies with limited time and budget constraints. Additionally, it helps companies set up databases, integrate data from various sources, build customised views and dashboards, automate workflows, and perform analytics with intuitive drag-and-drop interfaces and pre-built templates.

It must have been perfectly clear by now that no-code database tools provide a framework that is simple for businesses to manage data and processes without coding, allowing for more efficient operations and data-driven decision-making.

In case you are looking for someone to understand your needs and build a database for you using no-code tools, let us help you.

Why you should be using no-code database tools?

The versatility of no-code tools is talk of the town but let us get into the details and discuss the advantages it offers over the traditional way.

No technical knowledge required

This has been one of the highlights of no-code tools. It is kind of like DIY where you or any person from your team can work on these platforms without requiring any technical assistance. In contrast, if you opt for custom code development, you’ll have to hire and employ a developer to create and manipulate the databases.

Speed and simplicity

Organisations use these databases for various purposes such as customer management, inventory tracking, HR records, marketing data, sales funnels, and much more. Data being at the center of everything, a database has to be rapidly developed and new changes have to be deployed quickly and you can do this without writing a single line of code with no-code database tools.

Flexibility

As unique or complex as your requirement might be, no code does it all. These tools can adapt to your business’s changing needs through an easy drag-and-drop interface. It is compatible with third-party applications so if you need to integrate anything, it's possible. You can even automate the repetitive tasks that take up so much of your time when done manually.

Data centralisation

No code tools integrate data from multiple sources into one dashboard. This way all of your data is in one place and people from your organisation whom you permit can access the database. This eliminates the use of spreadsheets and it also offers easy migration.

Security

Besides the easy interface, it provides another important feature, security. For example, if you want to give access to a database to the marketing team then no one other than the members of the marketing team will be able to access the database. This way your information is protected from a data breach or getting out.

Affordability

No code tools have been proven to be cost-efficient especially for SMBs because of their various subscription models. You can select the right price range so you can build a high-quality dashboard in no time.

Top no-code database tools in 2024

The no-code database tools have brought forth new solutions that enable anyone to quickly build and manage full-featured databases without coding. As we move into 2024, a few platforms stand out as the top no-code database tools that provide rich functionality along with ease of use.

Airtable

Key features

• Intuitive spreadsheet and database hybrid - Airtable provides the spreadsheet interface. You can type in data into rows and columns like a normal spreadsheet along with easily connecting and combining the data.
• Flexible data views - You can build Kanban boards, calendars, galleries, charts, and more to visualise your data.
• User-friendly collaboration - You can share the bases securely and collaborate with teammates in real time without worrying about data breaches.
• App integrations - You can connect to popular software tools like Slack, Zendesk, Mailchimp, and more.

Use cases

• CRM - Manage your contacts, accounts, deals, tasks, and customer communication with ease.
• Project management - Track tasks, milestones, resources, schedules, and status.
• Recruiting - Organise job postings, candidates, interviews, hiring pipeline.
• Content calendars - Plan and schedule social media posts and campaigns.
• Sales pipelines - Track prospects from leads to close using views and automation.

Benefit for the business

• Cross-functional accessibility - Enable anyone to build workflows and access data.
• Flexible analysis - Gain insights from data across multiple angles.
• Enhanced productivity - Move past the repetitive work and tasks with workflow automation.
• Simple scalability - Start small and connect more data as needs grow.

AppSheet

Key features

• Intuitive drag-and-drop interface - With Appsheet you can build apps and workflows without coding.
• Automatic code generation - Backend code is created on the fly for each app.
• Multi-platform app development - Create web apps, mobile apps, and API apps from one project.

Use cases

• Internal business systems - Build customised portals, dashboards, and automation workflows.
• External client applications - Develop customer and client portals, e-commerce sites, and booking systems.
• Business intelligence - Real-time analytical reports and dashboards.
• Task automation - Streamline repetitive processes using workflows and bots.

Benefit for the business

• Accelerated development - Build full-stack apps 5-10x faster than traditional coding.
• Cost reduction - Eliminate the need for expensive professional developers.
• Optimised workflows - Improve business processes through automation.
• Unified data - Converge data sources into central dashboards.
  

Zapier

Key features

• Pre-built integrations - Connect Zapier with thousands of apps to sunc data.
• Easy automation - Build workflows to trigger actions between integrated apps.
• Conditional logic - Customise when and how zaps, an automated workflow connecting apps and services, run based on data inputs.
• Scheduled triggers - Set zaps to run at specific times or intervals.

Use cases

• Workflow automation - Streamline business processes by connecting apps.
• Data synchronisation - Seamlessly transfer and backup data between platforms.
• Notification automation - Notify relevant teams about important data changes.
• Lead generation - Automate saving new leads from ads or forms into CRM.
• Database triggers - Initiate actions in one app based on database updates in another.

Benefit for the business

• Improved productivity - Eliminate manual repetitive data tasks.
• Enhanced data flows - Smooth movement of data between different systems.
• New data insights - Create aggregated cross-platform data views.
• Faster processes - Automate multi-step workflows efficiently.
• Easy integration - Connect apps without coding or relying on developers.
• Expanded capabilities - Build complex logic.

Companies and teams looking to leverage no-code databases can choose from various excellent options based on their specific use cases and requirements. These tools make it simple for non-technical folks of all skill levels to create customised databases to manage business data, automate workflows, and build internal and external apps.

Key factors when choosing a no-code database platform

With so many no-code tools flooding the market and each one with multiple features, you ought to get confused, and to overcome this issue you need to focus on your requirements. Some of the factors that should be considered before making a decision are mentioned below.

Data types and sources

Figure out what kind of data you’ll be storing, for example, texts, numbers, or files, and if the tool can accommodate that type of data. The next step is to figure out if the chosen tool can connect wherever the data is. 

Scalability

As a founder, scalability is always on your mind so you need to think about your database in the same way. For example, as your data grows over time, the no-code database should be able to expand storage and capacity smoothly to ensure it can keep up with your company's growth.

Security

You need to ask yourself, will your data be protected with the chosen no-code database tool. Check for encryption, user permissions, and other protections to prevent unauthorised access or leaks.

Ease of use

The interface should be simple and intuitive enough for non-technical users to use without extensive training, this would result in quick, data-centric decisions. Less complexity means faster adoption.

Integrations

Being able to integrate with other software tools makes it easy for the members to access the database for the movement of data between systems. This way all the information you need will be in a single dashboard with required apps.

Pricing model

Look for the subscription model that will work for you. Ideally choose simple, predictable pricing without hidden fees and see if free plans are available for smaller use cases, or free trials for testing. For enterprise needs, look for volume discounts or customised pricing.

Support and community

A responsive technical support can provide guidance when needed. An active user community forum allows peer knowledge sharing. Review if responsive, timely technical support is available via email, in-app, phone, etc.

Additional no-code features

Built-in tools for reporting, workflows, notifications, etc. add value on top of just database storage and retrieval.

Taking into account all the factors, conducting a thorough assessment to make an informed decision is needed but the result will be worth all the effort because it will automate the repetitive work and will make teams efficient.

All these words just to convey that next time you get into a heated discussion with your uncle over holiday dinner, just remember—at some point, some coder out there has you both filed away neatly in a database. Data doesn't discriminate; it just gets processed.

No-code database platforms when paired with the no code website builders have made a space for themselves as essential tools for businesses to efficiently organise, access, and utilise their data. Without needing advanced technical skills, anyone can now leverage these intuitive platforms to build customised databases, integrate data sources, automate workflows, and make data-driven decisions. In 2024 and beyond, the adoption of no-code databases will continue accelerating across companies large and small to streamline operations and keep pace with market demands.

Hence, choose your no-code database tool wisely. If you need help or are just confused, let’s connect and see how we can help you.