Directus

Directus is a flexible data platform that sits on top of an existing SQL database to provide an admin studio and real-time APIs. It can be used as a headless CMS, a backend for custom apps, or an internal data management interface without requiring database migrations.

Key Features

• Instantly generates REST and GraphQL APIs on top of supported SQL databases
• Admin Studio for managing content, data models, and relationships through a no-code UI
• Works with new or existing databases, keeping full control of the underlying schema
• Role-based access control with granular permissions for collections and fields
• Extensible platform with support for custom modules and interfaces
• Digital asset management for organizing and delivering uploaded files

Use Cases

• Headless CMS for websites and apps using an existing PostgreSQL/MySQL/SQLite database
• Internal admin panels for business data with fine-grained permissions
• Backend layer for custom products that need both REST and GraphQL APIs

Limitations and Considerations

• Licensed under Business Source License (BSL) 1.1 with an additional use grant, which may require a commercial license for some larger organizations

Directus is well-suited for teams that want to keep their SQL database as the source of truth while rapidly adding APIs and a modern admin UI. Its database-first approach and extensibility make it a strong fit for custom builds that outgrow traditional CMS patterns.