Database vs Spreadsheet: When to Make the Switch

Spreadsheets are great until they're not. Here's when to upgrade to a database.

Use a Spreadsheet When

Under 10,000 rows. One person primarily edits. Simple calculations. Data doesn't reference other data. Ad-hoc analysis.

Use a Database When

Over 10,000 rows (or growing). Multiple users need simultaneous access. Data has relationships (customers → orders → products). You need to enforce data types and constraints. Audit trail required.

Export your spreadsheet data with CSV to SQL to generate the database insert statements, or use CSV to JSON for NoSQL databases.