A

API (Application Programming Interface)
A set of rules that lets software systems exchange data. In Knack, you can use the REST API to send and receive data from other apps—no backend coding required.

App Architecture
How your Knack app is structured—including pages, databases (objects), workflows, and user roles. Your app’s architecture determines how users interact with data and how workflows run.

App Builder
Knack’s drag-and-drop visual builder lets you create fully functional business apps—without writing a single line of code.

B

Backend
The data layer of your app. In Knack, your backend is made up of objects (tables), fields, connections, and logic like record rules and scheduled tasks.

Business Logic
The set of rules and actions that determine how your app behaves. Knack provides logic tools like record rules, page rules, workflows, and conditional views.

C

Client Portal
A secure area where your clients can log in and access data or services. In Knack, you can build client portals with role-based access control and custom views.

Component
Elements like forms, tables, calendars, and maps that display and interact with data on a Knack page.

Custom Domain
A branded web address like portal.mycompany.com instead of the default Knack URL. Custom domains help deliver a fully white-labeled experience.

CRUD App
A common app pattern that lets users Create, Read, Update, and Delete data—built seamlessly in Knack.

D

Database (Object)
In Knack, your database is made up of objects, which are like tables. Each object stores records (rows) and fields (columns) of structured data.

Data Governance
With Knack, you control who sees and edits which data using user roles, permissions, and view-level security.

Data Silos
Disconnected data across tools or teams. Knack breaks down silos by centralizing operations in one platform—and connects with external tools via APIs or automation platforms.

Deployment
Knack apps are deployed instantly. Hit “Publish” and your changes go live on the web.

Drag-and-Drop Interface
Knack’s no-code builder allows you to build databases, logic, and front-end views simply by dragging components into place.

F

Frontend
The user interface your users see and interact with—built with Knack’s views, pages, and design tools.

I

Integration
Knack connects to tools like QuickBooks, Google Sheets, or Slack using Make, Zapier, Albato, and native API capabilities.

L

Low-Code
A development approach that uses visual tools but allows adding code for deeper customization. Knack is primarily no-code but supports advanced customization via JavaScript and CSS.

M

MVP (Minimum Viable Product)
Knack is ideal for launching MVPs—apps with just the core features you need to test an idea or process.

N

No-Code
Knack enables users to build secure, scalable apps entirely through visual interfaces—no coding required.

No-Code Developer
Anyone—from operations managers to consultants—who uses Knack to build business apps without needing traditional programming skills.

P

Portal
A structured interface that lets different users (admins, staff, clients) log in and interact with just the data they need. With Knack, you can build multi-role portals in minutes.

Publishing
In Knack, publishing means pushing your app’s changes live. You can also embed your app in another website or share via custom domains.

R

Responsive Design
Knack apps are responsive by default—automatically adjusting for desktop, tablet, or mobile screens.

Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
In Knack, every user role has different permissions—ensuring that each person only sees and edits what they’re allowed to.

T

Template
Pre-built app structures that help you get started faster. Knack’s templates include common use cases like CRMs, project trackers, and order systems.

U

UI (User Interface)
What your users see. Knack’s views (tables, forms, calendars) make up your UI.

UX (User Experience)
How easy and intuitive your app feels to use. Knack’s logic, filtering, and conditional views ensure your app responds intelligently to users.

W

Workflow
In Knack, workflows are created with tools like record rules, scheduled tasks, and form rules to automate your processes.

Web App
Your Knack app runs in any modern browser—desktop or mobile—making it a flexible and secure web application.

Webhooks
Use webhooks in Knack Flows to send data instantly to other systems when something happens—like a new form submission.

White Labeling
With Knack, you can fully white-label your app by using a custom domain, hiding Knack branding, and customizing CSS for your brand.