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Utah"s teething problems

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  • Member since
    December 2007
  • From: Georgia USA SW of Atlanta
  • 11,919 posts
Utah"s teething problems
Posted by blue streak 1 on Wednesday, May 14, 2008 8:49 PM
Another agency did not test its system. I believe and correct me if I'm wrong that not a single has had problems with its ticketing system when starting up or changing systems. Utah's credit card reader system did not properly work at times. Why does every place have to reinvent the wheel over and then is surprised when it doesn't work? 
  • Member since
    October 2006
  • From: Chicago, Ill.
  • 2,843 posts
Posted by al-in-chgo on Thursday, May 15, 2008 1:06 AM

 blue streak 1 wrote:
Another agency did not test its system. I believe and correct me if I'm wrong that not a single has had problems with its ticketing system when starting up or changing systems. Utah's credit card reader system did not properly work at times. Why does every place have to reinvent the wheel over and then is surprised when it doesn't work? 

Probably because the only way to test the system is to actually operate it.  There are just too many complicated and necessary systems to do otherwise, and too many vendors and subcontractors who have had to pitch in, for any one person to get the "big picture" even with the help of software simulations.  Also, the LRT and commutation market today is international, and Siemens ain't telling Kawasaki who ain't telling Breda (or whomever) about their little glitches.   

It may not be the best politics, but it probably is the best PR and marketing to have a "quiet" opening several days before the scheduled Grand Opening.  Note that in Charlotte, the LYNX people had to beg an extension (of a couple of months IIRC), but then opened the line "quiet" several weekdays before the Grand Opening.  Those members of the public who stumbled upon it felt privileged, and it didn't goof up during G.O. when the dignitaries cut the ribbon, so to speak. 

Don't sweat it; the people probably meant their best.  Didn't Tri-Met in Portland have a lot of problems way back when?  How about Denver?  At least, it ain't Penn Central.  Big Smile [:D] 

Keep the faith!  Best, Al Smalling

al-in-chgo

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