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Relational Database Model What are the benefits and limitations of the relational database model for business applications today? Respond to at least two of your classmates’ posts. One of the benefits of the relational model is that it can respond quicker than the network data structure or the hierarchical model structure when information is needed immediately. As stated by O'Brien & Marakas (2011), “like the hierarchical structure, the network model was unable to handle ad hoc requests for information easily because its relationships must be specified in advance, which pointed to the need for the relational model” (p. 209). Many of requests made are not planned and most requests cannot be planned ahead; therefore, this benefit is very important. Another benefit of the relational model, especially for programmers, it is easier to maintain and it is easier to work with than the other models as stated by O’ Brien & Marakas (2011). If a database is not easy to maintain then updating the database may not be consistent which will affect the integrity of the information requested. Also, the ease of maintaining this model will save time and energy. The hierarchical and the network models are able to process huge amounts of transactions quickly but the relational model processes the same amount of information or transactions slower which is a limitation for this model. This is a major limitation because of the time used waiting for information. Another limitation of the relational model as stated by O’Brien & Marakas (2011) is this model “cannot process complex, high-volume applications as well as the object-oriented model. This performance gap has narrowed with the development of advanced relational database software with object-oriented extensions” (p. 209). As technology continues to advance, the limitations of the relational model will also decrease. Another thing to consider is that experienced programmers should be designing the database because as stated by Gillikin (n.d.), the relational database management system “does not force database designers to impose a coherent table structure; inexperienced programmers may design systems that create unnecessary complexity or limit the future development of the database through poorly chosen data types.” Small businesses may not be able to afford experienced programmers which may be a problem if this model is used. References: Gillikin, J. (n.d.). What Are the Limitations of Relational Databases in Business Applications. Retrieved from: http://smallbusiness.chron.com O'Brien, J.A. & Marakas, G.M. (2011). Management information systems (10th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill. ISBN: 978-0-07-337681-3