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Disadvantages
i. Expensive : It is comparatively costlier than other methods as it requires more
filing equipments. Besides this, trained filing clerk and separate guide cards are
needed to locate the position of files and folders.
ii. Consumes more space: It consumes more space, as big cabinets as well as
drawers are required for filing.
iii. Chances of losing documents : It might create the problem of losing documents
because the documents are kept loosely into the folder.
iv. Not suitable for small offices : Due to its expensive nature, it is not suitable for
small offices where documents are less.

Bases Horizontal Vertical
1. Meaning Files are arranged in flat or Files are arranged in upright
sleeping position. position.
2. Safety The documents are The documents are neither laid
punched and tied with a nor punched. So it is less secure
lace. So, it ensures the safety than horizontal.
of documents.
3. Economy This method is less Special filing equipments
expensive since there is are needed which make this
no use of expensive filing system more expensive than
equipments. horizontal.
4. Flexibility This method is less flexible This method is highly flexible.
in comparison to vertical
system.
5. Suitability This system is suitable for This system is especially
small organization as well suitable for large scale
as large scale organization. organizations.
6. Space This method consumes less This method requires more
space. space with comparison to
horizontal method.
7. Time While locating documents, It consumes less time to take
more time is consumed. out the documents
8. Secrecy Due to its open system, it is Special cabinets are used
less secure. to keep the folders which
maintains high security.

Methods of classification.
The action of placing some personal units in a special category on the basis of
similarity or similar qualities is called classification. The categorization of documents

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