Structured Query Language (SQL) is a standard computer language designed for accessing and manipulating relational database management systems (DBMS). Many modern GIS applications provide the ability to store data in an external relational database and to use SQL to interact with those data. The use of an external DBMS for GIS systems allows data to be shared throughout an organization, such that all interested parties have rapid access to the most up-to-date information. These systems also offer the benefits of speed, reliability, and security. The integration of GIS technology with standards-based relational databases in this way is often referred to as enterprise GIS. The Open GIS Consortium has developed standard database schemas for representing simple geospatial features that can be manipulated using SQL.