Before we start this article about examples of database software, we need to clarify some concepts.
Business jargon comprises of numerous abstractions like “processes”, “workflows”, “automation”, and “engagement”. But the pragmatic move from the concept to actual applications often falls short.
This is the case for database software. Everyone knows database software is needed for essential information management in an organization, but to leverage it for the most essential needs — like a basic contact list — we struggle to understand how it works.
Database software examples: platforms vs applications
The first common confusion is that “database software” is used to denote both database applications and database platforms.
An application is a software intended to execute specific tasks. It’s a bundle of features for performing a specific function
If you want more examples of database applications we already have articles on the subject:
- Online Database App Examples – Ideas to help with your own projects
- Microsoft Access databases examples for common business needs
Some of the database applications examples listed are:
- Inventory management system
- CRM
- Project management
- Contact management
- Patients records
- Invoice generator
So, how are platforms different from applications?
Platforms are the software that applications are built on top of; they provide generic components and features that allows developers to create custom applications. A metaphor for platforms could be a workshop where you leverage tools to build a piece of furniture (the application) like a table, or a chair.
Do-it-yourself Database Platforms
While many database platforms, like MySQL or Maria DB, are complex and only fall within the preview of IT experts, there is actually an intermediate category of “platforms” which allow lay persons to create simple applications - like an application to manage orders, or one to manage company contacts, a simple vacation approval app etc. Some examples are:
- HyperBase: lets you build simple applications and web forms with a smooth drag and drop interface. Ideal for companies looking for an all-in-one collaboration platform as it includes intranet builder, contact, document, and project management.
- Microsoft Access: Microsoft’s product for database management. The first in its class with mass adoption.
- Podio: another tool for content repositories, collaboration and creating forms.
If you want to see more examples of “do it yourself” database platforms, we recently created a list of the leading database software providers:
Real database software examples - a sneak peek
We will use HyperBase as an example, so that you can understand what a database software looks like and its capabilities.
You first see a library of pre-built database applications. You can see common applications, such as absence requests and an employee database for HR, account signup for Marketing, CRM and customer feedback for Sales etc. You will also find applications for medic history, invoices, real state brokers listing, support ticketing, and project management.
When you access an application of your choice—or create a new one—you’ll first see a panel where you can manage user permissions.
The Forms section lets you create customized forms to collect data from internal or external audiences. Some examples are a “contact form” which gathers information from website visitors and saves it in your “Website visitor questions” database. Or an “Absence request form” form that your employees fill out in your “Vacation requests” application.
Here’s an absence request form; as you can see you can create fields for different input formats, such as drop-down menus, long text, short text, and dates.
In HyperBase, you can “design” forms and customize the look, structure and fields required for your application.
All the information gathered through forms is stored in the Tables section. An application can have multiple tables and forms. For example, you might want to store Vacation Requests and Employee Directory in different tables.
However, the most common form in which you access database information is through “Views”. Views allow you to slice and dice data and present them according to your specific needs. For example you might want to have seperate Views for “New vacation requests”, “Rejected vacation requests” and “Long vacation requests” rather than seeing everything in a single table.
Want to know more about databases apps?
You’re welcome to request a free trial a demo of HyperBase, our database software solution. If you want more ideas to explore different solutions and the potential benefits, you can download our eBook below.
