Looking For Some Best Practices for Optimizing Tadabase App Performance !!

App Development
1

Hi everyone,

I am working on a Tadabase app that’s growing in complexity and I want to ensure it stays fast and efficient as the database expands. I would appreciate insights on best practices for optimizing performance, especially with larger datasets.

Here are a few specific questions:

Database Design: Are there any tips for structuring relationships between tables to avoid bottlenecks: ??
Page Load Speeds: How can I minimize page load times when displaying data-heavy components like tables or charts: ??
Automations and Tasks: For scheduled tasks or automations, is there a way to prevent them from slowing down the app during peak usage hours: ??
Query Optimization: Are there ways to optimize filters and conditions for faster data retrieval: ??

I am looking for practical, actionable advice that’s worked for others in the community. I have also read this thread https://community.tadabase.io/t/optimise-or-find-things-that-slow-the-app-down-ruby-on-rails but couldn’t get any helpful insights.

Any lessons learned or pitfalls to avoid would be super helpful !!

With Regards,
Marcelo Salas

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Hi Marcelo, it sounds like you’re looking for some overall kind of tips - @partners, can anyone give some broad advice for how to structure apps?

And @marcelo010salas it might also help if you can give us a description of what your app does and how it’s structured currently, because as with most things, the answer is really “it depends.”

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We are happy to offer a free consultation to review your app. Please reach out to connect@rmelas.com.

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One thing that I noticed in terms of loading tables is using text equations as a column is significantly faster than using the connection field itself.

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My advise would be to keep the equation and rollup fields to a minimum and monitor the equation logs (settings/logs/equation logs) to see where the longest calculations are taking place.

And, keep records per page low.

1 Like
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I’d recommend using tools like Make (or similar automation platforms) to manage automations, duplicate records, and handle other tasks. While Tadabase is capable of these, I’ve found these tools to be excellent companions, providing alternative ways to achieve efficient results.

I also echo @SuiteUpstairs’s advice about equations—less is definitely more. Make sure you understand display-only equations, as these are rendered client-side and don’t rely on server-side queues (which, in fairness, are quite rare these days). You can find more about this in Tadabase’s documentation on dynamic fields.

For database design, avoid overcomplicating things by creating unnecessary tables in an attempt to improve speed. Aim to use the minimum number of tables and relationships required, without compromising your app’s overall design or functionality.

Get to grips with Pipes (API calls) and webhooks early on, as they’re powerful tools. Be cautious, though, about creating recursive loops—I learned this the hard way! For example, if you’re using a third-party app with Tadabase API calls, ensure the responses don’t inadvertently trigger further events in your third-party app.

Make extensive use of the Tadabase forum. Many challenges you face will likely have been encountered by others. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, try adjusting your search terms—it’s worked for me on several occasions.

It’s also worth keeping an eye on the plugins library, which has a huge range of tools that can add flair, save you time, and help standardise your platform, reducing the need for custom coding.

Finally, if you do get into coding, lean on ChatGPT or other AI tools. They’ve saved me countless hours and can often provide quick and effective solutions.

Best of luck with your project, Marcelo—it’s an incredibly rewarding journey!

Graham