Introduction
If you're new to Lark, you may be wondering about the key differences between Sheets and Base. In this blog post, we'll explain the unique functions of each tool and show you different scenarios in which Sheets or Base could be helpful!
In a nutshell...
Sheets and Base are both tools for data management.
Where they differ is how they present and process information.
Basic functions
In many ways, both Sheets vs. Base can accomplish the same outcome: they manage data.
However, Sheets can be likened to spreadsheet programs that you might already be familiar with, that allow for high-volume data processing, formulas, calculations, and conditional formatting.
Meanwhile, Base can be likened to a database platform. It's a project management tool and systems-builder that empowers you to manage and present data in a highly visual and efficient way.
Base can also be inserted into an existing Lark Doc or Sheet, but with limited functions. To go beyond just displaying data and to reap the most out of Base's powerful functions, it should be used independently.
Both tools also have comprehensive template libraries that allow teams and individuals to accomplish a plethora of basic functions. Where it can get confusing for new users is that Sheets and Base can perform many of the same basic functions:
Basic Functions | Sheets | Base |
Input data | ✅ | ✅ |
Manage individual tasks | ✅ | ✅ |
Create lists of information | ✅ | ✅ |
Create internal reports | ✅ | ✅ |
Track OKRs and goals | ✅ | ✅ |
Project management and tracking | ✅ | ✅ |
So where do they differ?
Think of Sheets as a compass 🧭 and Base as a map 🗺️
Both are powerful tools that can help you to reach your goals, but the latter provides a richer overview of the process at hand. Exactly where Sheets and Base differ is how each tool can manage data.
Quiz - Test your understanding
Based on this simple 🧭🗺️ analogy, let's see if we can discern which tool is the best for different situations. Keep a tally of your score and check the end of the article for the correct answers!
💰 1. Finance Manager
A finance manager for a small marketing agency needs to calculate the reimbursement totals for the brand team's upcoming event.
A) Sheets
B) Base
C) Both
📊 2. Sales Agent
A sales agent is looking for the best way to keep track of the status of the potential clients that they are currently doing outreach on.
A) Sheets
B) Base
C) Both
📲 3. Product Manager
A product manager is conducting a feature test with a small group of internal users and needs to find a solution for capturing, tracking, and presenting their responses.
A) Sheets
B) Base
C) Both
Conclusion
Both Sheets and Base are versatile and can be scaled for use by an individual, all the way up to a whole enterprise . By using Lark, you will get all of these functions without paying for additional services, which is perfect for businesses of any size! For more information, check out Use Sheets and Base
Quiz Answers:
Finance Manager
Sheets: For tasks that require calculations or formulas, your default choice should be Sheets.
Sales Agent
Both tools can accomplish this objective in different ways!
Sheets: Allows you to create a simple client tracking database from an existing Lark template
Base:
- Grid view - Create a client database
- Kanban view - The client database can be displayed as a kanban to track the pre-sale stage in which the potential customers are currently e.g. contacted, in progress, reviewing the contract, etc.
- Automated workflow - The sales agent can update the progress of the most recent meeting and an automatic notification can be sent to other team members to inform them of the progress of this case.
Product Manager
Base
- Form view - Create a user feedback collection point.
- Grid view - The individual results from this survey can be displayed as a list to understand the number of responses garnered.
- Dashboard - Automatically generated from the survey to capture data as it is submitted by users.