Understanding the Difference Between a Websheet and a Database Application

An application is HTML interface that exists on top of database objects such as tables and procedures. Each application is a collection of pages linked together using tabs, buttons, or hypertext links. Application Builder enables you to build two different types of applications: a websheet application and a database application.

An database application is a collection of pages that share a common session state and authentication. Developers create database objects using SQL Workshop and then create an application using a wizard. Database application enable developers to manually control all aspects of the development process. You can manually add and customize components (reports, charts, or forms), page controls (buttons, items, list of values), and shared components (breadcrumbs, lists, or tabs).For more information on database applications, click the Learn more ... button on the Application Express home page.

A websheet application is geared for the business user and requires no prior development experience. Each websheet application is a collection of pages designed for Web-based data entry and reporting. When you create a websheet application, Application Builder automatically handles the creation of tables, triggers, and sequences. Websheets offer an easy, declarative approach to report and form layout as well as the creation list of values and validations. For more information on websheet applications, click the Learn more ... button on the Application Express home page.