Getting started for newbie

[FatalLordes]

I have a small database that I’ve made for a not-for-profit charity that presently is in excel across multiple sheets. I would like to share with about 10 people so I’m looking at options. I’ve used access a long time ago but essentially I’m a newbie so I want to get started in the right area first. The goal would be that the data could be accessed anywhere on anything so I figure browser is best. 

Essentially it is various tables that store connecting data. I’d like an easy data entry form, a search and a reporting function.  Being a newbie, where would you suggest I start?  The simpler the better but I’m happy to learn. Perhaps this isn’t even the right area and I’m thinking too big?  

[Joy_S]

Hi @FatalLordes 

Welcome to Google Cloud Community!

Since you’re just starting out and want to keep things simple, you may want to try the following:

• Google Sheets + Google Forms - Since you're already using Excel, transitioning to Google Sheets is probably the easiest way to start. It’s essentially the same as Excel but in the cloud, so it’s accessible anywhere, anytime, and can be shared easily with your 10 team members.
  • Tables: You can keep your data in separate sheets within a single Google Sheets file, just like your Excel setup. This allows you to store the connecting data you mentioned in an organized way.
  • Data Entry Form: You can create Google Forms that automatically feed data into your Google Sheets. This way, your team can submit data using a simple form, and it will go directly into the database without any manual entry.
  • Search & Reporting: Google Sheets comes with built-in features like search, filters, and basic reporting tools such as pivot tables and charts. These should cover your basic needs for managing and viewing the data.
• Google AppSheet - If you’re looking for a more structured and app-like experience, AppSheet is a great option. It’s a no-code app development platform provided by Google, and it integrates seamlessly with Google Sheets (and other data sources like Google Cloud SQL). With this, you can:
  • Create mobile and web apps: Based on your existing data in Google Sheets, AppSheet can automatically create apps with easy-to-use forms for data entry and built-in reporting features.
  • Set up search features: It allows you to create custom search functionality for your users.
  • Build reports: You can design custom reports, summaries, and dashboards.
• Google Cloud SQL with Firebase or Google App Engine - If you're looking for a more traditional database with greater flexibility and scalability in the future, Google Cloud SQL combined with Firebase or Google App Engine might be the direction to go.
  • Google Cloud SQL: This service allows you to host relational databases (such as MySQL or PostgreSQL) in the cloud. It’s more powerful than Google Sheets but comes with a steeper learning curve.
  • Firebase: Firebase is a platform for building mobile and web apps, with tools for backend infrastructure, including databases. You could use Firebase's Firestore for a NoSQL database and pair it with custom app interfaces for reporting and data entry.
  • Google App Engine: If you want to build a custom app with advanced features (like custom reporting, user roles, and advanced search), Google App Engine lets you develop web apps, but it will require more development effort (though they have frameworks to speed things up).

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