Back when memory was measured in KB, disk in MB, the GUI was paper-pencil, and usage was charged by the CPU minute speed - these limitations drove code writing logic. Storing element information first by type then by the ID was the efficient choice. Plus this method made it easier to add additional element types and it still is.
I do not miss those days nor do I have any nostalgic feelings for them.
Back when memory was measured in KB, disk in MB, the GUI was paper-pencil, and usage was charged by the CPU minute speed - these limitations drove code writing logic. Storing element information first by type then by the ID was the efficient choice. Plus this method made it easier to add additional element types and it still is.
I do not miss those days nor do I have any nostalgic feelings for them.