What are the disadvanatges and advantages of Dewey decimal classification scheme?

Answer 1

The advantages of the Dewey Decimal Classification systemThe Dewey Decimal Classification system is universal because of its numerical notation. Since there are different alphabets, a system based on Arabic numerals is used throughout the world.

Documents are classified by subject. Those interested or specialized in a particular topic can find all the documents they need under the same classification.

Three easily overcome disadvantages of the Dewey Decimal Classification system

1. Classification by subject and not by topic

   For example, the topic of drug use is discussed in psychology (157), sociology (363.45) and medical (616.863) books. Three disciplines deal with the this topic in their own way. Books on drug use can therefore have different call numbers under the Dewey system.

   Nonetheless, an alphabetic catalogue of topics (used in both computerized and non-computerized libraries) makes it possible to locate these books.

   A reader who needs information on drug use (or any other topic) will consult the subject catalogue or the subject heading in a library and documentation centre management software program. He or she will obtain a list of all the books that deal with drug use, regardless of the disciplinary angle from which it is studied.

2. The same topic can be studied within two different disciplines

   Let's go back to the example of books on drug use. If a group of authors publishes a book on all the aspects of drug use, this book cannot be stored in three different places. In this case, the librarian assigning the call number will determine under which subject the book will be classified.

   Again, if the reader consults the subject catalogue or the subject heading in a library management program, he or she will obtain a list of all the books that deal with drug use, regardless of the disciplinary angle from which it is studied.

3. The length and complexity of call numbers discourages some users

   The Dewey call number can be regarded as an address. If I have to meet Mr. X and I know that he lives at 641 Elm Street, the address tells me where to go. The same is true of the Dewey call number; I don't need to know whether Mr. X lives alone, or if he has children, a cat or a dog-nor do I need to understand all the intellectual criteria librarians use to determine if a book is to be classified under such and such a call number.

   With regard to the length of the call numbers, remember that elementary and even secondary school libraries use the abridged Dewey Decimal Classification system (no more than 3 digits after the decimal point) to simplify the classification.

   Difficulties often arise when books are arranged by people who do not understand the decimal system. This is now less of a problem for students since decimal notation is a compulsory topic in elementary Cycle Two mathematics under the Québec Education Program.

   Lastly, to facilitate access to books even more, most school libraries have decided not to use the 800 class (literature), which categorizes works by genre, era and country. Literary works (e.g. novels, albums) are therefore simply stored under the letter F (for fiction) and then subdivided by the names of authors listed in alphabetical order.

Answer 2

limitations of DDC