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Robots Ate My Check Out Lady

by Peter McKay

As a kid, I used to read a lot of scary science fiction stories. Even at that age, I knew they were total fantasy, stuff that could never come true. But now, as an adult, I'm not so sure. Everywhere I look these days, and I swear I'm not making it up, real people are disappearing and being replaced by robots.

If you call a company, any company, for information, a computer-generated voice (usually identifying herself as "Judy") will answer the phone, ask you questions and try ...

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2 Comments | Post Comment
Posted by: Matt
Comment: #1
Tue Sep 23, 2008 2:01 AM

I know exactly what you're talking about. Getting through to a live operator when I call my credit card issuer...is like trying to climb up a playground slide that's been covered with Vaseline. "Judy" gives me the runaround over and over, and she doesn't even recognize the word "operator." Have you noticed that it's become an actual marketing point now - that some companies (such as car insurance providers) actually mention in their advertising that you'll get a real human when you call? As if that isn't something we should expect - without having to be told they offer it! It's like advertising a vacation package and taking care to mention that yes, the rental car comes with tires and a horn! I'm not even 40 yet and already I miss the old days.

Posted by: Judy Thomas
Comment: #2
Tue Sep 23, 2008 9:22 AM

My name is JUDY and I am a live person that answers the phone when you call my plant. Yes I am evil just like my twin robot. However, we arent related to that self check out Judy and we dont like her either. I loved the article!

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