Databases can be used to store any type of information, but are most useful for data with similar variables. For instance, when maintaining a list of inventory items, while each item will be different, they will all contain consistent variables such as quantity, weight, price, and supplier. Using a database, you can store information regarding all of your inventory and then pull a list of products that meet specified criteria, such as those items that are running out (low quantity value) or are provided by a specific supplier. A database would be less effective for a list of unrelated items, since there would be no like variables to compare.