Final answer:
Straight numeric filing has several disadvantages such as difficulty in managing large volumes of records, higher risk of misfiling, the need for a robust centralized indexing system, potential exposure of confidential information, and a steeper learning curve for new personnel.
Step-by-step explanation:
The disadvantages of straight numeric filing include the following:
- As files accumulate, it can become difficult and time-consuming to manage large volumes of records because each file must be retrieved and refiled individually.
- There is a higher risk of misfiling since files are not grouped in a recognizable sequence beyond their numeric order, making it harder to notice when a file is placed incorrectly.
- It requires a centralized indexing system to track files, which can also become cumbersome as the number of files increases. Without an efficient indexing system, search and retrieval can be slow.
- The arrangement does not offer privacy protection inherently. Because files are ordered by number alone, employees with access to the index can see all records, which can lead to confidential information being more exposed.
- New personnel may require more training to understand and efficiently navigate a straight numeric system as compared to other filing methods which may be more intuitive.