In: Accounting
Outline the traditional problems associated with the flatfile model that are resolved by the database model.
FLAT FILE VS DATABASE MODEL
The problems with flat files that are resolved by Database technology include:
Data Storage --- Flat files result in considerable data redundancy and storage problems
Data Updating -- When users keep separate files, all changes must be made separately for each user. This adds significantly to the task and the cost of data management.
Currency of Information -- If update information is not properly disseminated, the change will not be reflected in some users’ data, resulting in decisions based on outdated information.
Task-Data Dependency -- The user’s information set is constrained by the data that he or she possesses and controls
Flat Files Limit Data Integration -- The flat-file approach is a single-view model. Files are structured, formatted, and arranged to suit the specific needs of the owner or primary user of the data.