PHP, MySQL, ASP, Ajax, Django, Python, Ruby on Rails: The list of options and techniques for using online databases can be staggering. Hunker down for a hands-on workshop for beginners that will help you get started creating great database projects.

David Milliron, Caspio Inc., formerly of the Atlanta Journal Constitution and Ganett: Why put data online? It connects nicely to the public service mission of journalism, and increases site traffic.

A key component to a database is keeping it updated. If the public sees that the site is static, they won’t come back.

Information on crime data, real estate, schools, public salaires and restaurants are always helpful.

Online databases done right: Jacksonville.com’s Databank.

Standardization is important.

Mapping and mashups: Data needs to be geo-coded fully. Google Maps doesn’t detail your country? Try Yahoo, Microsoft, or what about Mapquest- it does mashups and even has Doha mapped.

The National Institute for Computer-Assisted Reporting provides tipsheets, hands-on training and more.