Final answer:
The statement is true; the flat-file approach is indeed associated with legacy systems due to its prevalence in older, simpler data storage solutions before the advent of relational databases and more complex data management systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the flat-file approach is most often associated with so-called legacy systems is true. The flat-file approach to data storage refers to a system in which all data is stored in a single file or set of files, with minimal structure. Each line of the file typically holds a single record or data point. As databases became more complex and the need for better data management and scalability increased, the flat-file approach was supplanted by relational database management systems (RDBMS).
In legacy systems, which are older systems that may be outdated but are still in use by an organization, the flat-file approach was common due to its simplicity and because advanced database technologies were not yet available or widely implemented. This method made sense at the time because hardware limitations and software capabilities were different than today’s standards, which favor more structured and relational approaches.
While there are situations where a flat-file might still be used, such as in small-scale applications or for simple data storage needs, it is generally considered inefficient for larger, more complex systems that require robust data manipulation, multiple user access, and high integrity. Nowadays, relational databases and other more advanced forms of data storage and retrieval methods are the norm, offering significant advantages in terms of data integrity, scalability, and flexibility.