[3] Because the format is standardized, the files can be readily analyzed by a variety of web analysis programs, for example Webalizer and Analog.
Log files are a standard tool for computer systems developers and administrators.
For example, storing it in a relational database would force the data into a query-able format.
However, it would also make it more difficult to retrieve if the computer crashed, and logging would not be available unless the database was available.
A plain text format minimises dependencies on other system processes, and assists logging at all phases of computer operation, including start-up and shut-down, where such processes might be unavailable.