The "All American Cubicle Farm" - it's one of our culture's unfortunate exports to other countries. When one has to deal with a problem transaction, your call is often routed to people like these to deal with you and your problem. Sadly, it's the very reason many people prefer IVR systems (IVR - Intelligent Voice Recognition) over interacting with people. As for me, I prefer people to machines, as only they can point a person in the right direction for problem resolution when a SNAFU is encountered.
Tonight, I had to deal with a problem getting my NCL Latitudes Points (frequent cruiser points) credited properly. Only after getting someone somewhat knowledgeable, I was pointed to the right area (an email form, sad to say) that will get to the right people who can help me with my problem. AARGH!!! While I was in the mood, I was also inclined to communicate with the travel agent who handled my most recent cruise. I figure that I'd pose some questions, and see what he comes up with before I call him tomorrow evening.
In both cases, I was dealing with people in a Cubicle Farm. And it's something I don't like about our modern age. Hopefully, I'll get things resolved before I take my Hawaii cruise. If so, it'll be another trip as Marian unless I'm sailing with a new girlfriend. Either way, keep your fingers crossed.
