The age we live in is frequently referred to as the "Information Age," and for good reason. The Internet and other information technologies have made information readily available to more people than ever before and have turned information into a commodity on a level never before witnessed in history. Databases are one of the most powerful tools available to businesses to utilize this vast store of information.

To complete the assignment, you will need to read the following article: 

https://www.techtarget.com/searchdatamanagement/definition/database

After reading this article, address the following prompts in an essay.

1. Summarize how and why companies use databases.

2. Identify and describe different types of databases.

3. Explain why databases are important and/or useful for firms in areas such as Financial Services, Retail, Healthcare, Logistics, Telecom, and Manufacturing industries.