creating a database for a website and mobile app

Question

I want to create a database so both my website and mobile app could draw info from there. I know how to execute queries with a website, but I have little to none experience with mobile applications. I heard I can't just use any form of database(mysql, mongodb) because they are not compatible or something. so how do I create my database so it will be compatible with android iOS and PC. A few guidelines to get me started would be great :)

Solution

Sounds like you need to build an API to handle interaction between your mobile applications and your database, in much the same way your website communicates with your database. The primary difference will be that you will be returning JSON/XML to your apps, rather than displaying HTML to a user.

I thoroughly recommend JSON over XML as it is not as verbose and data usage will drop dramatically. However, if you're data structures are quite detailed / complex, go with XML.

To get started with building an API I'll recommend Slim PHP. You'll probably want some form of ORM also, for which I highly recommend idiorm/paris

The documentation for both of these frameworks is great, so have a dig around.