Baserow Application Builder

The Baserow Application Builder is a no-code interface that allows you to turn your database records into fully functional applications. It offers flexible tools to create workflows, visualize data, and share information with specific audiences inside or outside your organization.

This guide covers building custom web applications, client portals, and internal tools powered by your Baserow database.

Overview

While the Baserow Database handles your “backend” (storing and organizing data), the Application Builder handles the “frontend” (how users interact with that data).

You can use the Application Builder to design public-facing websites without writing code. Applications consist of pages, visual elements, and logic that connect directly to your tables. When a user interacts with an application (e.g., clicking a button), it can trigger actions like updating a row or sending a notification.

Core concepts

To build an application effectively, it is helpful to understand the five main components that make up the system:

Concept Description
Pages Pages act like the screens of your application. An application can have multiple pages, each with its own URL path and settings. You manage these in the left sidebar.
Elements These are the visual building blocks (e.g., headings, input fields, tables, buttons). You stack elements on a page to design the layout.
Data Sources Data sources act as the bridge between your application and your database. They allow you to fetch, filter, and display records from specific Baserow tables.
Events Events define the logic of your app. For example, you can configure a “Submit” button to create a new row in your database or redirect a user to a different page.
Domains To make your application accessible, you publish it to a domain. You can use a generic subdomain or connect your own custom domain name.

The Application Builder interface is designed to be intuitive. Here is how to find your way around the editor.

1. Accessing the builder

From your workspace homepage, select an existing application or click + Add new -> Application.

2. The sidebar (Pages)

The left sidebar lists all pages within your application. Clicking a page name will load it into the center canvas for editing.

3. Top bar controls

The top navigation bar contains your primary design tools:

  • Elements: Add visual components to your page.
  • Data: Configure which table data is available to the page.
  • Page settings: Manage page paths and parameters.
  • Device view: In the center, toggle between Desktop, Tablet, and Mobile icons to preview how your application responds to different screen sizes.

4. Preview and Publish

Located at the top right:

  • Preview: See your application exactly as a user would, allowing you to test functionality without going live.
  • Publish: Push your latest changes to the live production environment.

Application Builder interface

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is the Application Builder separate from the Database?

Yes and no. They are separate modules, but they are deeply integrated. The Application Builder sits on top of your database, using your existing tables as the source of truth for data.

Can I use my own domain name?

Yes. You can publish your application to a custom domain (e.g., portal.yourcompany.com) or use a default Baserow subdomain.

Do I need to know how to code?

No. The Application Builder is a visual, drag-and-drop tool. However, it offers advanced configuration options for formulas and filters if you need complex logic.

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