When not to use a Database Management System

A database is a collection of data. DBMS is a collection of programs that enables users to create and maintain a database. There are some situations where DBMS may involve unnecessary overhead costs that would not involved in traditional file processing. the overhead costs of using a DBMS are due to following:

•  High initial investment in Hardware and Software.
• Overhead for providing  security, recovery and concurrency control.

There are some additional problems that may arise if the database designers and DBA donot properly design the database.  It may be more desirable to use regular files under the following circumstances:

• Simple, well-defined database applications that are not expected to change.
• No multiple user access to data.

Certain industries and applications have elected not to use general-purpose Database Management Systems(DBMSs). For example: Communication and switching systems designed by companies like AT&T were early manifestations of database software that was made to run very fast with hierarichal organised data for quick access. General-purpose DBMSs are inadequate for their purpose. This is how DBMS may not be advantageous to use.