Managing a business requires a great deal of time, effort, and attention. Building a customer base and improving the bottom line are clear priorities, but keep in mind that none of that would be possible without a solid foundation of internal processes.
It’s challenging to run and keep track of multiple processes simultaneously while generating timely reports. Internal tools address this issue by automating processes and consolidating all of the data sources into a single user interface (UI).
Businesses build custom internal tools, such as analytics dashboards, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, employee directories, and workflow management software to streamline work processes and boost operational efficiency. In this article, we’ll explore seven popular platforms and frameworks organizations use to create bespoke solutions and stay ahead of the curve.
1. Appsmith
Appsmith is an open-source, low-code framework that developers use to quickly build, deploy, and maintain internal apps. With Appsmith, you can create anything from simple admin panels and CRUD apps to custom support portals and multi-step workflows.
With out-of-the-box integrations for over 20 databases, Appsmith’s prebuilt widgets can be connected to almost any data source. The platform has drag-and-drop widgets to create a functional UI and ready-made widgets you can move around to test usability. You can use JavaScript to manipulate data and pre-made blocks to design front-end UI.
2. Budibase
Budibase is excellent for fast-paced, dynamic business environments that regularly demand innovative solutions. It is an open-source, no-code/low-code platform designed to let developers quickly build robust corporate apps.
The platform comes with everything you need to connect to numerous data sources, forms, tables, and views, making creation and collaboration easier. It lets you link to an external database, extract data from a REST API, import a CSV, or use its built-in database to make a new database from scratch. Budibase programs work well on all devices, including desktop computers, tablets, and smartphones.
3. Glide
Glide is a no-code/low-code platform no-code development platform that lets developers quickly convert spreadsheets and databases into fully functional apps. You can save time using hundreds of prebuilt templates that you can easily customize to meet your business needs.
Use the platform’s visual editor to add images, text fields, and more. And from there, you can tweak workflows and functionality based on the data in your source sheet. You may use a Google Sheet as your database to create job application trackers, employee directories, task approval workflows, and other internal tools.
4. Internal
Internal is a no-code development platform businesses use to build internal tools without needing to hire software developers or engineers. With Internal, you can effortlessly manage existing data stored in multiple databases — even if you have no experience in coding, design, or SQL databases. Simply enter your data into Internal, and it will build a customizable web app where you can manipulate your data in different ways.
The platform has drag-and-drop features and can connect to APIs and third-party apps. And no matter where your data is stored, Internal can turn it into something useful without requiring you to sign in to other platforms.
5. Retool
Retool is a no-code/low-code app builder that lets developers create robust and well-designed interfaces without having to deal with the intricacies of UI libraries. With Retool, you can easily develop internal tools or back-office apps for your operations, support, and sales teams.
Retool has a complete set of powerful building blocks, such as charts, forms, lists, tables, and wizards. It includes these components so you can focus on designing your UI instead of creating it from scratch. Aside from an extensive library of components, Retool has an intuitive drag-and-drop interface, templates for popular applications, and prebuilt connectors for databases and APIs.
6. Softr
Softr is an all-in-one, no-code platform that lets users develop all kinds of internal tools, from employee intranet portals to applicant tracker platforms. It includes a selection of internal tool templates to help you get started.
The platform’s native integration with Airtable and Google Sheets enables real-time, two-way data sync, allowing team members to seamlessly collaborate on projects. In addition to a server-side authentication functionality powered by Amazon Web Services (AWS), Softr lets you define custom permissions to manage access for various employees.
7. Stacker
Stacker is a no-code development platform that allows you to create dynamic apps and interfaces for work spreadsheets and databases. You can start building from scratch or import existing data from Airtable, Google Sheets, or Salesforce. With Stacker, you can transform a spreadsheet into a client portal, a custom CRM, an app for field workers, or anything else you may need.
Stacker’s intuitive drag-and-drop interface makes it incredibly easy for non-techies to use. It has enterprise-level functionalities, including single sign-on, advanced permissions, and white labeling. It’s also quickly expanding, with the ability to import data from over 60 different sources, including Google Drive and Zendesk.
Conclusion
Building internal tools may be the best solution for small, innovative businesses looking to gain a competitive advantage. With a no-code/low-code platform, creating internal tools is faster and less expensive than it used to be. Check out the development platforms listed above and choose the one that works best for you.
