SCADA systems incorporate data acquisition which we implemented at various levels, including but not limited to recording data to a database, to spreadsheets, or to text files.  Recording can be saved locally, to a network location, or sent out via email.  Data is typically used for reporting, for analysis, for process optimization, for cost tracking, or used for regulatory purposes.  Stored data can also become a valuable safety record.  Record keeping can be triggered by events or be continuously recorded at a preset interval.