I. Intro
Tables and views are core concepts of Base. This article introduces how these two concepts work, how they're related, and their differences.
A base can contain multiple tables, and each table can have multiple views.
In a base, tables are independent of each other, but data can be link across tables through formulas, one-way or two-way link fields, and lookup fields.
A view is a way to present data. Views are created from the same data source and edits in one view will be synced to all other views of the table.
II. Description
What is a base?
A base is a database composed of tables and data must follow the format defined by the field type. The first field is the index field, which is used to organize and manage records. Columns are called fields and rows are called records in Base.
Example: The figure below shows examples of a base for task management, which enables members to collaboratively manage tasks as a team.
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What are tables?
Like a sheet, a table is where the data is stored. The relationship between tables and a base is similar to how individual sheets and the spreadsheet are related.
In base, tables are arranged vertically on the left. Click Table in the lower-left corner to create a new one.
Example: In the figure below, the base has two tables: Task breakdown and Team OKR Tasks.
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What are views?
Views allow you to see the data in a table from different perspectives. Creating a new view for a table is like adding a new way to present data. Editing data in any view (such as adding, changing, or deleting content) will change how the data is displayed in all other views.
To achieve the same effect as creating a new sheet in a spreadsheet, you need to create a new table in a base instead of creating a new view.
Note: The concept of views does not exist in spreadsheets. Pivot tables for spreadsheets are somewhat similar to what views are to base.
Example: In the figure below, the "Task breakdown" table has four views:
- Task list (Grid view)
- Progress gantt chart (Gantt view)
- Progress kanban (Kanban view)
- Tasks (Gallery view)
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Views enhance the experience for multi-user collaboration, allowing users to create their own views to filter and group data, so only relevant content is shown. Click the + to the right of the view name to create a new view.
Note: Filtering, grouping, or sorting data in one view does not affect the display of data in other views. However, editing or deleting the data will affect the data displayed in other views.
View types
New tables are displayed in grid view by default, which makes it easier to add and set different types of fields.
View types | Images |
Grid view: Grid view organizes data in rows and columns. This view is generally used to create or adjust a table structure, allowing you to quickly add and move fields around and input data efficiently. | 250px|700px|reset |
Kanban view: In Kanban view, each record in grid view becomes a card. The cards are arranged in columns based on specified conditions, allowing you to intuitively view and manage related data. | 250px|700px|reset |
Calendar view: Calendar view organizes records according to the date field in a calendar format, so you can check your entire monthly schedule at a glance. You can drag-and-drop events to change their dates, making event planning and project management more convenient. | 250px|700px|reset |
Gantt view: In Gantt view, a record's start and end dates are converted into a time bar, which can be edited through simple drag and drop. This view is useful for tracking project progress and milestones. | 250px|700px|reset |
Gallery view: In gallery view, a record's attachment becomes the main focus, showcasing each record as a gallery card, which is ideal for displaying visual content. | 250px|700px|reset |
Form view: Form view converts the table into a questionnaire-like form that you can share with organization members or anyone on the internet. Recipients can fill out the form and their responses will be synced to the table. | 250px|700px|reset |
III. FAQs