Final answer:
The main drawback of the behaviorally anchored rating scales system is its time-consuming nature, requiring extensive setup and the organization of qualitative data.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main drawback of using the behaviorally anchored rating scales (BARS) system is that it can be quite time-consuming. BARS involves developing detailed scales based on specific behavioral examples that anchor various points on the scale. This process necessitates a significant investment of time in its initial setup, involving the collection of behavioral incidents, the development of the scales themselves, and the training of managers and other raters. Furthermore, the qualitative nature of the data collected through this method can make organization and analysis challenging, requiring more time and resources. This can be seen as a hindrance to operational efficiency, especially when there are concerns regarding the return on this investment of time and effort.