This deep dive discusses Grist, a modern relational spreadsheet that combines the familiar grid of traditional spreadsheets with the discipline of databases. Grist enforces strict data typing in columns, ensuring consistency and scalability. It uses Scolite, a widely deployed database engine, making data portable and accessible. Grist supports Python syntax in formulas, offering powerful data manipulation capabilities with an AI assistant to help users write formulas. It features incremental imports for recurring data and native forms for data collection. Grist provides granular access control, allowing dynamic permissions based on data and user attributes. It integrates with other tools via APIs and supports open-source core with additional enterprise features in the hosted version. The document highlights Grist’s potential to shift the trend towards open, flexible data platforms.
