Databases are needed to offer quick access to data, which makes the Internet a practical resource. Databases are also needed to track economic and scientific information.
Most medium and large businesses rely on databases to store customer information. Because this information is accessible wherever Internet access is available, customers don't have to go to a local banking branch, for example, to access their account information.
Databases are also used for scientific research. Instead of having to track down hundreds or thousands of weather stations, researchers can rely on databases that store weather information from around the globe. This greatly reduces the workload needed to calculate statistical information.
