DbSchema

The backbone of nearly every website or business that needs to keep track of large quantities of data and quickly respond to a request, there lies a solid database. There is an abundance of specialized software components that let you add data and create links, with DbSchema trying to make it a little easier.

In terms of visuals, the application sports a clean look, with an intuitive overall design and well-structured tabs that let you quickly access project items, as well as an interesting perspective panel which lets you navigate through the workspace as you would on a mini map.

At a first launch, you can choose whether to start a new project from scratch, import already existing files or even connect to your local database via your network. Somewhere along the way you notice the breathtaking amount and diversity of database types it supports, with entries like MySQL, Access, Firebird, Oracle, Teradata and a lot more.

With the help of context menu entries, effort required on your behalf mostly concentrates at gathering data to import, because all creation options are as easy as can get. With a few mouse clicks and several dedicated windows, you are able to create tables, views, callouts, groups of tables or even bring up several editors for SQL, relational data, query builder, or random data generator.

Creation windows that are brought up might feel a little overwhelming, but are equipped with incredibly helpful tooltips that make even the least experienced users try their luck and succeed. Tab support let you easily access editing options for columns, keys, and signatures.

The visually appealing display of elements on your workspace lets you easily identify elements, group tables and link them together more efficiently. Once all data is inserted, you might want to save and export your work in order to upload it to your server. This is done if connected to a provided address, with export options enabling you to get ahold of databases compatible with most popular formats, as well as basic image files for the schema.

On an ending note, DbSchema manages to live up to expectations and is a powerful alternative in case you consider trying something new, or even starting from scratch. Since it's based on Java it can run on a wide variety of configurations and machines. Practicability is one of the main advantages, the application providing support and compatibility for various database types, with the intuitive design getting you quickly up and running.