Back in the day before widespread internet we often used compilation publications to research products for home and business. The magazine "Consumer Reports" provided testing results, similar product comparisons and purchase recommendations based on price, durability, efficiency and other factors using tables, lists and diagrams. Similar trade journals would address and compare new vehicle models to aid buyers and generally inform readers of the latest gadgets and modifications.
Now online, searches and accessing archived statistics are greatly simplified. For a non-physical example I recently used an online service provided by my state comparing judges using various criteria including peer reviews and evaluations of case work and judicial decisions. My 2020 ballot included choosing 60+ (nonpartisan) judges up for election. The judicial website provided background and context to the names on the ballot. Along with other sources including local newspaper archives, I was able to make informed decisions.