From Chaos to Control: Our Journey from AirTable to Drupal
Beginning: Client's Idea with AirTable
The client wanted to implement an inventory management system using AirTable, believing it would be a quick and modern solution. They also planned to later integrate Drupal for interface work and functionality expansion. We supported this idea but quickly ran into problems.
Problem #1: Data Structure Limitations
AirTable allows creating tables and relationships between them, but its data structure proved too rigid for our needs. For example:
- Relationship Depth: We wanted to create a complex hierarchy of products, categories, and subcategories, but AirTable only allowed single-level relationships. This resulted in data becoming chaotic and difficult to manage.
- Record Count Limitations: When we started adding thousands of products, AirTable became slow and would sometimes freeze completely.
Problem #2: Lack of Interface Flexibility
We wanted to create a user-friendly interface, but AirTable proved too limited:
- Form Customization: Forms in AirTable were very basic. We couldn't add complex fields like dropdowns with dynamic data or input validation.
- Lack of Responsiveness: AirTable's interface wasn't optimized for mobile devices, which became a serious drawback for our users.
Problem #3: Integration Complexity
We needed to integrate the system with other platforms like CRM and payment gateways. While AirTable had an API:
- API Limitations: API calls were limited by requests per minute, causing operational delays.
- Lack of Complex Query Support: We couldn't perform complex data queries, which complicated analytics and reporting.
Problem #4: Lack of Data Control
AirTable stores data on their servers, which raised security and privacy concerns for the client. Additionally:
- Data Export: Exporting data in a convenient format (for example, for backup purposes) was limited and complicated.
Turning Point: Moving to Drupal
After months of struggling with AirTable, we realized it wasn't the solution we needed. We decided to try Drupal. And it was love at first sight.
Why Drupal Worked?
- Data Structure Flexibility: Drupal allowed us to create complex hierarchies of products, categories, and subcategories using taxonomy and custom content types.
- Powerful API: Drupal's RESTful API made integration with other systems seamless.
- Interface Customization: Using modules like Views and Form API, we created a user-friendly and responsive interface.
- Data Control: Drupal allowed us to store data on our own servers, ensuring security and privacy.
Result: Happy Ending
We implemented the inventory management system on Drupal, and the client was thrilled. It worked fast, was user-friendly, and easily integrated with other systems. AirTable became a valuable learning experience, teaching us that not all "quick" solutions are the best ones.
Moral of the Story
Sometimes simple solutions seem attractive, but complex tasks require powerful tools. Drupal proved to be exactly that kind of tool — flexible, reliable, and ready for any challenge.
Are You Struggling with Similar Software Limitations?
Just like our client, you might be fighting with inflexible tools that seemed perfect at first. Whether it's AirTable, another SaaS solution, or a legacy system that's holding your business back, there's a better way.
We've been through this transformation ourselves and know exactly what questions to ask and pitfalls to avoid. Our experience with both AirTable and Drupal means we can honestly evaluate if Drupal is the right solution for your specific case.
Let's talk about your current challenges and explore if a Drupal-based solution could give you the flexibility, control, and scalability you need. No sales pitch - just an honest discussion about your business needs and potential solutions.
