What Backend/Database Software Should I Choose?

The first thing to consider when choosing backend/database software is the technical capability of your team. Some products are ideal for non-developers, while others are more suitable for seasoned programmers.

If you have no coding skills, look for a product that comes with point-and-click functionality. For instance, products that come with GUI interface enable you to create or update a database without any knowledge of programming. You can simply drag and drop the required elements into layouts or forms.

However, if you have a team of professional programmers, you can choose an advanced product capable of creating a highly customized database. You’ll also find products suitable for those dipping their toes into coding. Some of these products are also capable of creating customized databases, but they present a steep learning curve to any user with little programming experience.

Another important consideration is your database usage. Enterprises expecting a large number of database transactions on a daily basis will need a different product than a small business with a handful of users will need. You should also check whether the product supports the necessary file types for data import. For instance, you may need a product capable of importing ODBC and DBF (dBASE) and comma-separated text.

Depending on your requirements, you can look for specialized solutions. For instance, some products are designed exclusively for real-time log management and analytics. Industry-specific solutions are also available. For instance, companies in the voice recognition industry may look for a product with a range of SDKs and APIs to help add video, voice, verification, IM and SMS into apps, quickly and easily.

Common Features of Backend / Database