Welcome to our Quickbase Review — your go-to guide for understanding how this powerful low-code platform can transform your app development process. Whether you’re a business professional seeking to streamline operations or a developer aiming to expedite project delivery, Quickbase offers an intuitive, flexible solution. Dive into our insights to see how it can fit into your tech toolkit.
What is Quickbase?
Quickbase is a low-code development platform that offers an easy-to-use solution for creating custom business applications. With a focus on speeding up the development process and enhancing project management, Quickbase stands out by enabling users to connect their organization’s existing systems, automate workflows, and grant precise access to information across teams.
Company History Overview
Quickbase, originally a division of Intuit, has established itself as a standalone entity devoted to simplifying app development for “citizen developers” — individuals without extensive coding skills. Since its update in October 2023, the company has concentrated on providing solutions that help manage complex projects efficiently, aiming to mitigate risks, reduce waste, and avoid unplanned expenses.
Quickbase Review
Quickbase offers a blend of speed, ease of use, and a comprehensive set of features that cater to business users and developers alike. Its platform facilitates the fast creation of applications ranging from simple scheduling tools to complex CRM systems, without necessitating deep technical knowledge.
Features
| Feature Category | Feature Details |
|---|---|
| App Creation Experience | – Wizard-based app creation for ease of use<br>- Options to create an app from scratch or import a spreadsheet<br>- Marketplace for prebuilt apps and templates |
| User Interface (UI) & Experience (UX) | – Pared-down UI similar to TrackVia<br>- Guided UX similar to Appian and Google App Maker<br>- Functional and simple generated UI, but lacks the polish of newer tools |
| Customization & Data Model | – Barebones database modeler for defining records<br>- Supports text, date/time, and user/email fields<br>- Basic customization options like adding buttons, reports, and charts |
| Training & Support | – Interactive training courses through Quick Base University<br>- Community and knowledge base support options available |
| Integration & Workflow Automation | – Wide selection of third-party app and database connectors<br>- Integration with major CRM and ERP platforms, including Salesforce and Slack<br>- API and Webhooks integrations for automated logic and workflows<br>- Unique Dynamic Form Rules for setting automated app logic without coding |
| Developer & IT Administration | – User-friendly for IT-focused perspective, allowing fast app development<br>- Good set of predefined field types and formulas for calculated fields<br>- Easy to navigate platform with straightforward administration and access controls<br>- Lack of an image data type and limitations in connecting multiple database records noted as minor drawbacks |
| Marketplace & Prebuilt Options | – Quick Base Exchange marketplace offers hundreds of free apps to download or customize<br>- Not as expansive as Salesforce App Cloud or Mendix, but offers a substantial variety |
| Pricing & Affordability | – Starts at $25 per user per month for the Premier plan<br>- Platform plan starts at $40 per user per month<br>- Middle price range compared to SMB-focused platforms and enterprise players |
| Unique Features | – Fastest experience tested for getting a basic app up and running with no coding<br>- Dynamic Form Rules feature for form-based, interface-controlling automation<br>- Easiest to use among tested low-code development platforms for non-technical business users |
Quickbase boasts a wide array of features, including:
- Visual Modeling: Simplifies the app development process with an intuitive interface.
- Integration & Deployment: Seamlessly connects with various data sources and services for easy app integration.
- Service & Support: Provides robust support to ensure smooth operation and deployment.
- Product Capabilities: Offers extensive customization, scalability, and easy maintenance features.
- Market Features: Supports scalability, integration, customization, and ease of deployment.
Quickbase Use Case
A common use case for Quickbase involves building a basic scheduling app that allows users to add events with details such as name, date, time, and duration, and invite attendees. This demonstrates Quickbase’s ability to quickly turn ideas into functional, form-based applications.
Quickbase Pros and Cons
Pros
- Fast App Creation: Streamlines the process of building basic applications.
- Intuitive Wizard-Based Building: Makes app development accessible to non-technical users.
- Comprehensive Marketplace: Offers a variety of prebuilt apps and third-party integrations.
- Educational Resources: Provides guided tutorial courses for new users.
Cons
- Dated User Interface: The UI lacks the polish of newer low-code tools.
- Lack of Native Mobile App: Limits accessibility and use on mobile devices.
- Pricing: Can be considered expensive for small businesses or non-profits.
Quickbase Pricing
Quickbase’s pricing starts at $25 per user per month for the Premier plan, offering up to 50 apps, customizable roles, and workflow automation capabilities. The Platform plan begins at $40 per user per month, including additional features like a developer sandbox and corporate directory integration.
Conclusion
Quickbase is a versatile and user-friendly low-code development platform that fills a unique niche in the market. It excels in making app development accessible to a broad audience, from business users seeking to automate processes to developers looking for a more efficient way to create applications. While it faces some challenges in terms of UI design and pricing, Quickbase’s strengths in fast app creation, extensive integration capabilities, and robust support make it a competitive option for organizations looking to enhance their digital transformation efforts.
