Why businesses use custom databases
Not everything fits into standard CRM fields. Businesses need custom databases for:
📦 Custom Inventory
Track unique assets with custom properties your industry needs.
📋 Process Tracking
Build intake forms, approval workflows, and status tracking.
🏷️ Content Calendars
Plan social media, blog posts, and campaigns with custom fields.
📊 Research Data
Collect and analyze structured data for any research project.
Airtable vs BBos tables
| Feature | Airtable | BBos Tables |
|---|---|---|
| Custom fields/columns | ||
| Multiple views (grid, gallery, etc.) | ||
| Linked records/relationships | ||
| Formulas & calculations | ||
| Built-in CRM | ||
| Built-in accounting | ||
| Built-in time tracking | ||
| Built-in HR/employees |
The Key Difference
Airtable is a standalone database that requires integrations to connect to your other tools. BBos Tables is part of a complete business platform—your custom databases can link directly to clients, employees, invoices, and tasks.
Building your first custom table
1. Create a Base
Bases are containers for related tables. Create one for "Marketing," "Operations," or "Projects."
2. Define Columns
Add fields: text, number, date, dropdown, checkbox, attachment, formula, and more.
3. Add Records
Enter data row by row, import from CSV, or connect forms for data collection.
4. Create Views
Filter, sort, and group data into different views for different teams or purposes.
5. Build Dashboards
Visualize your data with charts, metrics, and summaries on custom dashboards.