I just read that Roger Boisjoly died. He is the engineer that tried to stop the Challenger Launch. While I am sympathetic to those in a race to the bottom due to competition, taking short cuts, rationalizing, and ignoring risk has consequences. Read the full story here.

I love Starbucks. I even have a gold card that I proudly display at the register, except in Asia where it does not work. And the Asian cards don't work in the US. This is sort of a drag because I wanted to show off my card from Tokyo, but it does not work. But I digress...

Something that has been bugging me is how orders are taken. I first have to give my order the coffee wench, then I have to repeat it to the cashier. It has been like this for a long time. But something new has happened. Now the cashier must input all the small details of the order into the computer so it can keep inventory. Because the coffee wench holds the cup, I have to answer 3-4 more questions. Even worse, the line slows down, and the cashier is stressed out. No more friendly greeting.

Seems like Starbucks has designed procedures for its own benefit, not mine. Just like the times I have been kicked out right at closing time because the employees must follow the rules to stay out of trouble.

Has Starbucks Tuned Out?