Quickbase Platform Evaluation Guide

App Development

Developing in no-code

When building in Quickbase by yourself, there are two different ways to build apps. You can upload data, or you can start from scratch. In almost every case, it’s better to start from scratch rather than uploading a dataset. In general, import spreadsheets for quick insights, and build from scratch for complete control.

Here’s why: When you create an app from a data import, you have the chance to select one spreadsheet, and Quickbase will build an app around that in a standard row-and-column form.

When you start from scratch, Quickbase brings you to the visual schema builder, which allows you to drag and drop the elements you want in the app onto a canvas. This way, you have control over the tables, the fields within those tables, and the relationships across them. Importing data is a step that comes later, after the app has been conceptualized.


Get complete visibility into your data

It’s the difference between working around your data and having your data work for you. When you begin in the visual schema builder, you’re able to visualize how you want the app to work, and how you want to innovate on the process. Starting from scratch allows your team more granular control over how your app will solve a given problem, creating a better and more cohesive experience for workflow and capabilities.

"Starting from scratch” doesn't mean you’ll have to manually enter your data, and it doesn’t mean you can’t upload data. It just means you’re adding data to an already-built app, rather than tying an entire app directly to one dataset. This way, your app solves for exactly what you need, you can add more than one dataset, and you'll be able to connect apps to one another to create an increasingly comprehensive data experience.

When you build in partnership with Quickbase, there are more options available through Enablement Service Packages. Try your hand at building an application with a free trial.