How to Set Up and Use NocoDB on Nife Deploy

NocoDB is an open-source Airtable alternative that turns any relational database into a smart spreadsheet interface.
With NocoDB, you can collaborate, build APIs, and manage data effortlessly.
Deploy it in just a few clicks using Nife Deploy.

How to Deploy NocoDB on Oikos#

Access the Platform#

Navigate to OpenHub#

  • On the sidebar, click on OpenHub to explore available applications.

Search for the App#

  • In the OpenHub search bar, type NocoDB.
  • Locate the NocoDB application from the results.

Start Deployment#

  • Hover over the NocoDB app card.
  • Click on Deploy.

Wait for Deployment Completion#

  • The deployment process usually takes a few moments.
  • Once completed, you will see an Open App button.

Accessing NocoDB#

  • Click Open App to access your deployed NocoDB spreadsheet interface.

Official Documentation#

Learn more about NocoDB’s features and capabilities:
https://docs.nocodb.com

How to Use NocoDB#

Once your NocoDB app is deployed and opened, here’s how to get started:

1. Create a Workspace#

  • After logging in, create a new workspace to organize your projects.
  • You can use the built-in SQLite database for a quick start or connect to an external database (MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, etc.).

2. Create a Base (Project)#

  • A base in NocoDB is like a workspace for your database.
  • Click New Project → choose Create New Base.
  • You can start with an empty base or select Sample Data to explore features quickly.

3. Import Data#

  • If you already have data, you can import it directly.
  • Supported imports: CSV, Excel, JSON, Google Sheets.
  • Navigate to your project → click Import Data → upload your file.
  • Your data will instantly appear in spreadsheet view.

4. Connect to an External Database#

  • Instead of creating a new base, you can connect NocoDB to an existing DB.
  • Go to New Project → Connect Database.
  • Enter your DB type (MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, MariaDB, SQLite).
  • Provide credentials (host, username, password, database name).
  • NocoDB will sync and display your tables as spreadsheets.

5. Create a New Table#

  • Inside your base, click + New Table.
  • Define columns with types (Text, Number, Date, Select, Attachment, etc.).
  • You can also add relationships between tables (One-to-One, One-to-Many, Many-to-Many).

6. Manage & Explore Data#

  • Each table works like a spreadsheet:
    • Sort, filter, group records
    • Add formulas for calculated fields
    • Switch views (Grid, Gallery, Kanban, Form)

7. Collaborate with Your Team#

  • Invite team members to your workspace.
  • Assign roles like Viewer, Editor, Creator, Admin.
  • Changes are synced in real-time for everyone.

8. Auto-Generated APIs#

  • Every project automatically gets REST & GraphQL APIs.
  • Go to API Docs in the sidebar.
  • Copy the endpoints and use them directly in your apps.

With these steps, you can deploy NocoDB on Nife Deploy, create or connect databases, manage data like spreadsheets, collaborate with teams, and instantly generate APIs for your projects.