Skip to main content

Getting Started with the AnyDB Interface

Overview​

This guide introduces the main layout of the AnyDB interface and how to navigate, create, and edit content efficiently. Whether you're managing employees, invoices, projects, or assets, the interface is designed to keep your data, structure, and collaboration in one clear workspace.

Layout Overview​

The AnyDB interface is divided into four key panels:

PanelPurpose
Sidebar (Left)Navigate between databases and folders in your workspace
Middle PanelView and search items (data documents, pages, files) in a folder
Main PanelView and edit your selected data document in a spreadsheet-like layout
Right SidebarConfigure cell-level properties, formulas, styles, and privacy settings

1. Sidebar: Navigation & Organization​

  • Switch between databases (e.g. HR DB, Sales DB, Projects)
  • Browse folders within each database (e.g. Employees, Reviews)
  • Use "Inbox", "My Forms", and "Shared with Me" for quick access
  • Click + to create a new data document, page, file, or folder

2. Middle Panel: Item List View​

  • Shows the items in the currently selected folder
  • Click on an item to open it in the main panel
  • Use this panel to quickly browse records like employee profiles or invoices

3. Main Panel: Spreadsheet-Like Document Editor​

This is the heart of AnyDB. Here you can:

  • Fill in rich, structured data using a spreadsheet interface
  • Add badges, attach related documents, and assign tasks
  • View and edit values using cell-specific controls
  • Organize information into sections using labels and styling

You can:

  • Click a cell to edit
  • Use arrow keys to navigate
  • Press Escape to return to read-only view

4. Right Sidebar: Cell Properties & Logic​

When you click a cell, this panel shows all cell-level details:

SectionDescription
DetailsCell label (display name), formula, and data format
StyleFont, color, size, alignment, and conditional styles
PrivacyLock cells, hide from viewers, or hide only in forms

You can:

  • Add formulas
  • Define conditional styling (e.g. highlight if value > 100)
  • Mark fields as hidden from forms or non-editors

Tips & Best Practices​

  • Use the "Sharing & Forms" button to publish forms or share documents securely
  • Use folders to group related records, like employees by department
  • Create templates for repeatable layouts (e.g. Invoice, Employee Record)
  • Attach related items (e.g. performance reviews) to parent records (e.g. employee)