How to Use Online Database Tools

You no longer need to set up a database in Microsoft Access or some other software that you personally own--and then figure out how to publish it on the web in a useful way. You can now take advantage of powerful online database applications that will let you share data in many ways. Here are some of the best for you to check out in search of the one that's right for you.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• A web browser
• Spreadsheet software

1. Blist.com

   A powerful and popular database tool is Blist. There's a free version. Blist calls itself the world's easiest database, and for good reason. It is very easy. Blist uses an interface a little bit like an Excel spreadsheet. But it's very different from an Excel spreadsheet. The cells in the Blist can contain images, lists of infinite length, whole documents, dates, tables and many types of data. This data can be displayed in various ways that are visually easy to set up and visually appealing to look at.

2. DabbleDB

   Dabbledb is not free, but there is a one month free trial. You import data from a spreadsheet and can view it many different ways. You can add forms to dabbledb to let users add more data. You can change headers or the configuration of each field or put data in a calendar or map easily. There are also various ways to search the information.

3. CEbase

   Cebase allows the creation of online forms for the databases and stresses ease of use. Create the database with drag-and-drop tools and then display it in various ways with what they emphasize requires no technical skills.

4. MyOwnDB allows for multiusers to work online with data. It appears to be aimed at business users who may want to enter information while traveling. You have to sign up to even see the demo, so it's a bit harder to see what the functions are with MyOwnDB.

5. Trackvia

   There's a monthly charge for Trackvia, but you can take advantage of the free trial to find out if it works for you. Trackvia offers simultaneous access, unlimited storage, backups and easy imports from your spreadsheets. There are various types of data searches available and many types of fields, including images for your records.

6. Zoho DB and Reports

   ZOHO DB & Reports, just like Blist, has received many very good reviews. Like the others, you import a spreadsheet to begin. Once you have the data imported, a drag-and-drop interface lets you set up how you want to display or chart the data. The data can also be embedded elsewhere, such as an existing website.

Resources

• Blist
• Dabbledb
• Cebase
• MyOwnDB
• Trackvia
• ZOHO DB & Reports