Softr: No-Code App Builder Expands Past Airtable Databases

Softr, a no-code app builder originally built on Airtable databases, is expanding its functionality to incorporate additional data sources and integrations. This evolution allows users to create dynamic, data-driven applications with increased flexibility and scalability, surpassing the limitations of its earlier platform. With these upgrades, both technical and non-technical creators can build robust, versatile apps, reflecting Softr’s commitment to innovation in the no-code development space. These improvements empower users with seamless transitions and extended capabilities.

For those working at a small business who need to create a client portal or internal tool, it can be challenging to secure the funds and resources to hire a developer for such a modest project. This is why over 600,000 individuals - including project managers, HR staff, and marketing professionals - have turned to Softr’s no-code app builder to craft their own solutions.

Originally launched as an interface layered on top of Airtable, a well-known enterprise database, Softr is now rolling out significant product updates planned for 2025. Users are no longer limited to Airtable for storing data. They can choose from a variety of external databases, whether it’s user-friendly options like Google Sheets and Notion or developer-focused choices such as PostgreSQL, MySQL, and MariaDB.

Co-founder and CEO Mariam Hakobyan explained to TechCrunch that as they expanded, they discovered many companies were still relying on manual methods like paperwork, emails, and spreadsheets instead of centralized digital data. She added that another issue was the scattered nature of data - some stored in HubSpot, others in Google Sheets or SQL databases - so their aim became to provide a single, unified platform where users could integrate disparate data for various operational tasks.

This new, data-agnostic approach is paired with a completely revamped app-building experience. Softr now offers a library of ready-made blocks that users can simply drag and drop to construct pages featuring lists, charts, forms, tables, and more. In addition, the platform introduces innovative AI-powered tools to further ease the app development process.

Reflecting its focus on internal tools and portals, Softr has also incorporated a robust permission system. For example, you can establish different user groups, enabling clients to only submit forms and access specific data, while granting employees full rights to view and edit all information. In the no-code arena, Softr is celebrated for its user-friendly nature. It frequently ranks among the top five platforms recommended for newcomers because of its simplicity and intuitive design. “That’s intentional because we actually want everyone who isn’t a developer to be able to build a tool,” Hakobyan noted.

Looking ahead, Softr plans to introduce workflows and tables in the coming months, allowing users to operate independently of a third-party data store. While some current users already manage their data via Google Sheets or Notion when using Softr, these new features could greatly benefit those just signing up. Hakobyan remarked, “If you already have data, you can integrate it seamlessly with your app. And if you want to build an app without relying on a database, we have solutions for that as well.”

Adopting a freemium business model, Softr largely relies on word-of-mouth marketing. Out of the 600,000 sign-ups on the platform, about 5,000 have converted into paying customers. For context, the company raised a $13.5 million Series A round in 2022 led by FirstMark Capital and has since maintained financial efficiency while operating without a dedicated sales team. “We are almost profitable,” Hakobyan added. The company’s founders are based in Berlin, and their 45-member team is spread across 15 countries.

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Source: techcrunch‍