Introduction to data

Use the Data tables link to manage the tables, views, and datasources that power your workspace.

Your data model usually comes first. It shapes the screens, automations, filters, and permissions you build later.

What data is for

Use data to:

  • Store rows and fields in a structured way
  • Define relationships between records
  • Control what users can read or write
  • Generate screens and automation inputs

Budibase DB

Every workspace starts with a Budibase DB datasource.

The built-in Users table lives there too and cannot be removed.

Use Budibase DB when you want the simplest path to app data or when you are prototyping a workflow.

Add datasources

Add datasources from the Data tables link.

Common source types include:

  • External SQL databases
  • REST APIs
  • Document databases
  • Budibase DB tables

After you add a datasource, you can create tables, configure views, and reuse that data across apps and automations in the same workspace.

Data workflow

A typical workflow looks like this:

  1. Define the data model
  2. Add the datasource
  3. Configure tables and columns
  4. Add views and permissions
  5. Build screens and automations on top of that data

Related guides


What’s Next

Now that you understand the basics of data sources, you might want to dive into these pages next

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