A Complete Guide to All the Components of Airtable Software

Businesses continue to use spreadsheets to manage their daily operations even when there are better tools out there. There are database platforms that can help them avoid the monotonous activity of editing and formatting in Excel. Airtable software is one option that makes databases more approachable without the requirement of SQL or programming skills.  

It is a straightforward, user-friendly platform that helps users create and share information internally as well as externally. The user interface has been designed in a simple, colorful, and attractive manner. Users can set up their database within a few minutes. Storing information, organizing files, and collaborating with other teams or departments becomes much easier on the platform. It can hold complete employee directories, product inventories, and other information. There is no scripting required with the Airtable demo because it has a friendly interface. 

How is Airtable Better Than Spreadsheets? 

There are several differences between a spreadsheet and a database although both of them look the same. The pages are separated by rows and columns with data organized in a tabular form. However, their functionality could not be more different. The spreadsheets utilize functions and mathematical formulae to make estimates and calculations. Whereas, in a database, there are SQL queries that allow users to sort, filter, and compare data. Although these options are available with spreadsheets too, their functionality is limited and they are prone to human errors. 

The relational database does not only store data but Airtable features also keep track of all relationships between the datasets. It can link the users in a directory with their organization, payment plan, and other information. These relationships can be used to answer all manners of questions. Storing data together in a single spreadsheet can be difficult and it has a higher possibility of errors. Sorting and comparing the data in the database is much easier and users can filter users from a particular sector of the industry without changing anything in the database itself. 

There are several rules of thumb to follow for databases since they are used to store a large amount of information. Spreadsheets are much better for performing calculations however with Airtable software users can enjoy the benefits of both. It is a relational database that is as easy to use as Google Sheet or Microsoft Excel. There are different automation options available too which help users make the most out of their database platforms. They can also connect other applications to the interface for added functionality. 

An Overview of Airtable Software

Created originally for the food industry in 2012, Airtable software can now be adapted to any type of business. As some of you might not know, this platform has gained momentum and market share in recent months.

From the Airtable API to the Airtable Blocks, you might hear your peers talking about the greatness of this software. Or else, you might have heard something like “Airtable is the same as a steroid chart”. Well, it actually will be a pretty good summary of what it is.

In brief words, the Airtable demo has proven how the software has been considered to be the power of spreadsheets and databases. The platform comes with a very flexible, customizable, and easy-to-use API. The innovative Airtable API makes the software a worthy choice among its other competitors. How? Now imagine turning an ordinary employee into a database administrator. Well yes, this is what you can do with Airtable software.

Use Airtable software as a podcast guest database

Another thing that makes Airtable software unique is its usefulness to podcast producers. The spreadsheet in this platform can be used to contain topics and guest ideas. You will be able to refer to these spreadsheets. As a result, it will be easy to keep track of the guests who have already graced the podcast.

Airtable Software Components 

Bases 

There are singular databases that contain information relevant to a particular project. The base might serve as an employee directory or store inventory depending on the type of business. It contains all the data that a team needs to complete the project. In fact, They can start with a blank page and build it up according to their preferences or use a template to have the system already set up. Finally, The templates provide users with an overview of all the functionalities possible with Airtable software. 

Airtable features include an extensive library of templates available that are populated with all the elements, sample data, and other information needed for a team to get started. There are options relevant to CRM, time tracking, and project management which make it a complete solution for any team. Using a template is very easy and users can select the one they want from the homepage. Another, It can be applied to any base and has customization options too. Users can keep track of all the necessary information by adding columns or rows wherever necessary. 

Tables 

Each table is supposed to hold a list of data regarding a particular item. A base can have multiple tables similar to the number of sheets in a spreadsheet. Every table can be used to define specific features of each database entry and group them. Next, The tables can also be used to create schedules where every employee is assigned a task and they can find all the details relevant to it in one place. This saves time spent emailing everyone separately because they can view it themselves.  

Fields 

Every column in the table is referred to as a field and contains a specific piece of information. They are designed to create a consistent and organized Airtable software database. The field can have names and be customized to hold all types of content like phone numbers, attachments, checkboxes, and also a lot more. Likewise, If the company is using the table to create a schedule or calendar then they can have fields for due dates, work category, assigned employee, and share links to the relevant files.  

Records 

Records are the equivalent of a row or cell in a spreadsheet. Each one contains a particular detail related to the item in question. These tables have records related to every item on the list with data in the corresponding fields. In a relational database like the one in the Airtable demo, the data relies on the relationships and all records in one particular table can be linked to the records in another. Similarly, They can add links and once the association is created users can get import and export information from one table to another.  

A directory for example can have the contact linked to their organization which makes it easier to pull up information. Data related to the item is displayed on the card which makes it possible to sort or filter. A calendar can be viewed with only tasks assigned to a particular employee as well. In a result, Users can expand a record with a single click and see all the details. 

Views 

Although it is possible to view all the records at once, they can also be separated into multiple views according to the base. These Airtable software views help users view the information through a different lens. They can view the underlying data and customize it to see the records that fit specific criteria. Furthermore, Users can view data for a particular department of the organization for example.