Bridge is not a DAM, it’s a browser.
Rather than throw out the baby with the bath water, perhaps it would be better to figure out why you can’t read the catalog, and why this issue manifest. I and many, many others have been using the product without issue since day one (some of us before day one).
I agree with you. I really do! and, I have been using it for years also,,since its first version. And, I understand its benefits, especially with workflow and everything in "one"place. The Keywording is essential for my workflow. But, I am now questioning that workflow.
Why I have been using a third party processor for my Raw images that is limiting. It does a good job but now as well as the manufacture. You can see the proof when converting IR images. Lr room doesnt interpret images as well.
Why I am switching between so many software programs. I have to many different locations for folders.
Why I have critical information for a file that is separate(sidecar) from the file. Shouldn't it be in the file?
Why I am using LR when I am using PS so much.