What are demerits of DDC?
There are a few potential drawbacks to using the Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) system:
- Complexity: The DDC system is a detailed and comprehensive classification system, and it can be complex to use, especially for users who are unfamiliar with the system. It may take some time and effort to learn and understand the decimal notation, the captions, and the notation schedules, and this can be a challenge for users who are new to the system.
- Limited subject coverage: The DDC system is designed to cover a wide range of subjects and topics, but it may not include all of the materials that a library needs to classify. In some cases, libraries may need to use additional classification systems or create their own custom classifications to cover specific subjects or topics that are not covered by the DDC system.
- Inflexibility: The DDC system is designed to be flexible and adaptable, but it may be less flexible than some other classification systems. For example, the system may not allow for easy reclassification of materials as new knowledge or subject matter becomes available, and it may not be as easy to customize or tailor the system to meet the specific needs and goals of individual libraries.
- Limited ability to reflect changes in knowledge and subject matter: The DDC system is regularly updated and revised to reflect changes in knowledge and subject matter, but it may not be able to keep pace with rapid changes in certain fields or disciplines. This can be a drawback for libraries that need to classify materials in rapidly evolving or emerging fields, as the DDC system may not always be