Databases can be designed with flexible permissions and visibility - so that different types of users can see different aspects of the data - with different read/write/delete privileges.

The result is that while every employee will login to the same system (usually a web application) each will see only what is relevant to their roles and departments.

While the database "engine" does the back-end work such as storing data, creating backups and running queries, there needs to be a way for the users to input and interact with that data.

A browser-based application (Web App) is usually the best means by which the users can read and write the information.

A web application makes it simple and reliable to host and maintain the solution in a single remote location (nowadays "the cloud"), rather than the PC of every user.

Access to the database can also be limited by a range of factors other than a basic the login/password, including date/time, IP address - and one of the many commercial authentication schemes designed for high security user management.

One of the key benefits of a database is its ability to shuffle, sort and make sense of the data.

With the right choices of reports and "dashboards" you can make more informed decisions and also have real-time visibility to KPIs (Key Performance Indicators).

Automated notifications (through SMS or Email) can monitor specified risks, actions or opportunities and inform the relevant people pro-actively and immediately to take the appropriate actions.