These days, the trend is to develop apps online for better accessibility. That’s where open-source databases like SQL—combined with PHP and the Apache web server—shine. There are tons of tutorials out there thanks to strong community support. Plus, it’s all cross-platform, so it works on a variety of PC operating systems.
Naturally, being free makes open-source databases the top choice for SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) scale companies. Why pay a fortune when free tools can do the same job?
In high schools and vocational schools, learning Microsoft Access is part of the standard IT curriculum (under the 2013 Curriculum). Not to mention the abundance of computer courses offering office software training that usually includes Access. This often becomes a running joke—some even call Microsoft Access a “corporate class” program... just because you actually have to buy it.
PS:
Yes, Microsoft did eventually release ASP.NET and Microsoft SQL Server, which are web-based. But honestly, it was a bit late to the party. Back then, deploying such apps required the pricey Windows Server OS. Meanwhile, the PHP + Apache + SQL combo already had the edge: strong community backing, zero license fees, and runs just fine on Linux.
