Off the Cuff / My Other Journal

Promptness and Efficiency

From plumbers to City Hall, to professionals and the commercials of all companies, we are promised promptness and efficiency. Yet, most promises fall short most of the time. I think what is lacking is incentive.

What would provide proper incentive? Let’s me see. Praise works somewhat, but I believe something more substantial would give better results. So, what about bonuses and fines?

What if, by law, -after the first half hour you wait in somebody’s office- for each extra half hour you could deduct a percentage from the fee? After all, some professionals already do bill you –and rightfully so- if you make an appointment, don’t show up and don't call either. They could also charge you extra for showing up late. Something to consider next time you dawdle around, before an appointment.

What if, each repairman who promises to make a house call and doesn’t show up -and doesn’t call either- were to pay you a fine, according to the guidelines of the law?

What if each worker -at any level, rank, or profession- is given a tax break for not making people wait and or for showing up when promised?

Worth trying, I say.