In essence, they need to process information. Young scientists have similar needs. When they write, draw graphs, do maths and make measurements, they too are doing the same thing. They are processing information. The technology for processing information includes the word processor, the spreadsheet, database programs, sensors, and modelling programs.
Spreadsheet programs take the strain of making tables, drawing graphs and working with numbers.
Database programs allow us to search for information and look to patterns within it. Sensors help us to measure changes and draw graphs. Modelling programs help represent scientific ideas that are too hard to get a grip on in real life. If there's a common thread, they allow the scientist to do more and go further. It's important that children see how today's scientist works.