GAS - Google AppSheet - a brief

Mastering AppSheet: Build a Resource and Skill Tracker (RST) App

Course Description: This comprehensive course will guide you through the process of building a robust Resource and Skill Tracker (RST) application using Google AppSheet. We'll cover all the essential elements and components of AppSheet development, from data modeling to advanced features, all within the context of creating a practical and functional RST app.

Target Audience: This course is designed for individuals who want to learn how to build powerful applications without coding, including:

• Business professionals seeking to streamline workflows and improve efficiency.
• Project managers looking to track resources and skills effectively.
• Citizen developers eager to explore the potential of no-code app development.
• Anyone interested in harnessing the power of AppSheet for their specific needs.

Prerequisites:

• Basic computer literacy and familiarity with spreadsheets.
• A Google account for accessing AppSheet.
• No prior coding experience is required.

Course Outline:

Module 1: Introduction to AppSheet and the RST App

• What is AppSheet?
• Benefits of using AppSheet for app development.
• Overview of the RST app: purpose, features, and target users.
• Setting up your AppSheet account and environment.

Module 2: Data Modeling for the RST App

• Understanding data structure and organization.
• Creating tables for resources, skills, projects, and assignments.
• Defining columns, data types, and primary keys.
• Establishing relationships between tables (one-to-many, many-to-many).
• Importing existing data from spreadsheets or other sources.

Module 3: Building the User Interface (UI)

• Designing the app's home screen and navigation.
• Creating views for different data interactions (forms, tables, dashboards).
• Customizing the look and feel with branding and formatting options.
• Adding user-friendly elements like buttons, icons, and search bars.

Module 4: Core AppSheet Features

• Expressions: Writing formulas and expressions to manipulate data, perform calculations, and implement logic.
• Actions: Automating tasks and workflows with actions (e.g., sending emails, updating records, integrating with other apps).
• Security: Setting user roles, permissions, and data access controls.
• Offline Access: Enabling offline functionality for mobile users.

Module 5: Advanced RST App Functionality

• Skill Matching: Implementing logic to match resources with project requirements based on skills.
• Resource Scheduling: Creating a calendar view for scheduling resources and tracking availability.
• Reporting and Analytics: Generating reports and dashboards to visualize key metrics and insights.
• Workflow Automation: Automating assignment notifications, reminders, and approval processes.

Module 6: Integrating with Other Services

• Connecting the RST app to Google Workspace apps like Gmail, Drive, and Calendar.
• Integrating with third-party services via Zapier or webhooks.
• Using AppSheet's API for custom integrations.

Module 7: Testing, Deployment, and Maintenance

• Thoroughly testing the app for functionality and usability.
• Deploying the app to users and managing access.
• Monitoring app usage and gathering user feedback.
• Maintaining and updating the app with new features and improvements.

Hands-on Activities:

• Throughout the course, students will engage in hands-on activities to reinforce learning and build their RST app.
• Exercises will include creating tables, designing views, writing expressions, configuring actions, and implementing advanced features.
• A final project will involve customizing the RST app to meet specific needs or use cases.

Course Materials:

• Access to a dedicated online learning platform with video lessons, tutorials, and downloadable resources.
• Sample data and templates to accelerate app development.
• Interactive quizzes and assignments to assess understanding.
• A supportive online community forum for peer-to-peer learning and assistance.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Confidently build functional and visually appealing apps with AppSheet.
• Understand the core concepts of data modeling, UI design, and app logic.
• Leverage AppSheet's features to create a powerful Resource and Skill Tracker app.
• Apply your AppSheet skills to develop other custom applications for your specific needs.

This course provides a structured and engaging learning experience to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to become proficient in AppSheet app development. Let's get started building your RST app!