The Johnson County Kansas Department of Motor Vehicles has become a new local meeting place for early risers. Months ago the DMV purchased a new computer system that has brought the county motor vehicle department to its knees. The time it takes to access the personal information for transactions runs at a fraction of the speed of the old system. Any typical business day there are 100 people in line at the door when it opens at 7:30am. They do have a service, for a nice $9.50 fee you can call an automated service and get a spot in line and avoid the early morning event.
As I sit in line for the second time in as many weeks, I realize how calm and cordial everyone is. The weather is nice, that surely helps. It's interesting to listen in on those type A personalities who deftly start up conversations to pour our their opinions and ideas on the issue to anyone within ear shot.
Most people stand or sit on the sidewalk and stare off into space, it's their first time here since the new system came on line. The experienced victims are easy to spot, books, large coffee mugs, folding chairs, mostly positioned very close to the front of the line. They know to ensure getting in and out before noon, they need to be in line an hour before the opening.
Standing in line, trapped like folks needing food, they wait, patiently, on their best behavior, saving the rage, unfortunately, for the anonimity of road.
Nice post. There could be a great debate on which or where would be better for the rage to be directed, the anonimity of the road or the person behind the counter who is only tring to help the customer with what they have to work with.
ReplyDeleteAfter three trips to the DMV I was very impressed with the professionalism of the folks behind the counter. It was obvious they are as frustrated as the consumers with the slow system. I received zero positive comments from the employees about the changes. I believe most people hold thier rage, understanding that directing it at the person they wish to help them, may not be in their best interest.
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