Kexi/Handbook/Introduction to Databases/Who Needs a Database
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Who Needs a Database?
Stick to spreadsheets if:
- Your data needs are limited and unlikely to grow into large volumes (can you confidently forecast that now?).
- You are not ready or able to learn the methodology of database construction. However, consider outsourcing this task or using simpler tools as an alternative.
- You rely on complex spreadsheets but lack the time or budget to transition to databases. Evaluate whether this approach might lead to inefficiencies or dead ends. Avoid expecting magical tools to seamlessly convert a spreadsheet (no matter how well designed) into a database.
Consider using databases if:
- Your data collection grows consistently, expanding every week.
- You frequently create new spreadsheets, copy data within them, and find the process increasingly tedious. In this case, transitioning to a database will likely save you time and effort.
- You create reports and statements where the table view of a spreadsheet is not suitable. In this case, consider switching to a database with form views for better organization and presentation.