Electronic catalogs are much more flexible than paper-based catalogs.
First, the content of paper-based catalogs becomes outdated whenever new products are introduced, prices are changed, etc., while the electronic catalog can always be kept up to date. Second, static layout of the paper-based catalog forces one specific view on the products, which cannot be customized. In the electronic catalog, several flexible layouts can be presented, and the user could either choose which one best fits his needs or can create a view of his own. Third, paper-based catalogs allow a limited number of efficient item searches. Fourth, an electronic catalog can allow the user to order the product on-line, while showing how many items are in stock, what is the status of the order, and how long the user is expected to wait until the order is going to be shipped.