KitBase 2 versus Spreadsheet
by Gary Marples, Developer of Suisoft Kitbase
In various forum threads and emails I have discussed the pros and cons of KitBase versus spreadsheets
(e.g. Microsoft Excel or OpenOffice Calc). I have drawn up a comparison table in an attempt to show the
benefits (and limitations) of KitBase. I have tried to be objective but please bear in mind, as the
creator of KitBase, I'll still be a bit biased.
Spreadsheets are great tools for tracking lists of items and performing complex calculations.
For some modellers and collectors a straightforward list with some cash value totals and counts
is perfectly adequate.
A database application (like Suisoft KitBase) offers significant functionality beyond that of a
spreadsheet. Databases are designed to relate information together (for example Accessories to Kits)
and a dedicated application can make more advanced functions such as associating images very easy.
If you are already using a spreadsheet, KitBase has a simple to use import function.
You can try out KitBase with your own data and see the benefits.
KitBase / Spreadsheet Comparison Chart
Important Note: The comparison chart below assumes a basic spreadsheet with automatic filters switched on, rather
than a complex spreadsheet application built using macro/script programming, forms and advanced functions.
Key:
 |
Feature Available. |
 |
Spreadsheet: feature can be achived with some effort (not built in). |
 |
KitBase: feature planned in a future KitBase release. |
| Feature |
Spread-
sheet |
Kit-
Base |
Screenshot |
| Instant Sorting and Filtering |
|
|
|
|
Duplication of Records
Kitbase allows key fields on kit records to be duplicated to enable easy entry of multiples.
|
|
|
|
|
Associate and Organise Documents and Images
Files can be embedded or linked in spreadsheet cells but not organised in a clean way.
|
|
|
|
| Image Gallery |
|
|
|
|
Easy to use forms
Encouraging data quality via master lists.
|
|
|
|
|
Freeform Data Entry
Data entry without validation can result in inconsistent data (e.g. variation of spellings).
|
|
||
| Associate Accessories with Kits |
|
|
|
|
Customisable Views
Can be achieved in a spreadsheet but would require a lot of cell references.
|
|
|
|
|
Instant Reports
Achievable in spreadsheets via references or pivots but require time to set up.
|
|
|
|
|
Reports from multiple perspectives
Can be built in a spreadsheet via references or pivots and formatting.
|
|
|
|
|
Portable Import Format
KitBase allows Excel spreadsheets to be imported in CSV (text) format.
|
|
|
|
|
Portable Export Format
KitBase allows reports to be exported into spreadsheet format (CSV), directly from the kit list.
|
|
|
|
| Table and Field Customisation |
|
|
|
| Windows Compatible |
|
|
|
|
Mac OSX Compatible
An OSX version of KitBase is under investigation.
|
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|
