Many patient management decisions an otolaryngologist makes every day stem from good patient- and population-based evidence. This paper will explore the topic of population/database research and how these studies are useful. We also examine the current literature on this subject, explore the strengths and weaknesses of these studies and provide information on the practical aspects of performing this type of research. Overall, this paper should provide both an understanding of and an incentive for those with an interest in database use and the development of outcome-based projects.