Thursday, February 03, 2022

A Tale of Two Customer Processes

 Over the past week I have experienced two types of customer processes that each in its own right was as equally bad as the other was good.

The first process was Dell Computers. I had a problem with a Screen Pop-Up that began showing up on all my screens when I attempted to get Map directions for my upcoming Cataract Surgery at an outpatient surgery center (The second Process).

My computer concern was that was I was hijacked from a website and that information was being taken from my PC or passed back to a third party through the internet.

Being a retired Quality and Process Improvement person for over 45 years I am always critical and very praiseful when I see good and bad processes.

What follows is the Email that I sent to a Dell Technician’s Supervisor after spending over seven hours on the phone with four different reps. Names are changes to initials…

I would like to commend G.G. for excellent customer Service. I spent over SEVEN hours on the phone with FOUR different Dell Reps before my problem hopefully is now resolved. 

The first rep J.W. took information (Suspicious Pop-Up on Google Chrome) from me and I sent him a screen shot of my problem while on hold. After a half hour of waiting for him to get back to me the phone was disconnected. I sent him an Email and he responded the problem was on his end and he would get back to me. I waited over an hour and sent 2 emails asking for response/status - Nothing happened, and he did not respond.

I called back and got N.M. who spent 3-4 hours on the phone trying to fix the problem. N.M. took remote access and uninstalled and reloaded Chrome which we thought fixed the problem. She then said I had updates that needed to be done (Windows and Dell). While she ran these updates a number of problems (Waiting hours to finish) and restarts began to happen. She had me restart using F2 Key and other problems started. a BIT LOCK Recovery screen showed up and then I had no idea what to do and the laptop kept shutting down. Our phone connection was disconnected, and I waited for a call back which never came.

I again called back and talked to a gentleman (Never did get his name). I was very frustrated and asked him to contact N.M. that I needed help. He said he chatted with her, and she was now on another call with a customer (UNBELIEVABLELY Frustrated now). He said she could call me back later but did not know when. He started to help and after 15 minutes later we are disconnected. NO CALL BACK AGAIN (Even though he had my number).

I called again and got G.G. She assured me (like the others) she would help me. We spent several hours going through the problems and trying to get a 46-digit BIT Lock Recovery Code from Microsoft using my cell phone. Once this was done, she was able to see the Pop-up (It returned). She determined it was a google map “extension” and removed it promptly. She then went through the PC with me (Remote Access). We waited a long time for the PC to recover and make sure the Bit Lock Recovery was fixed (I hope). My PC is now doing another update as I write, and she said this would take a long time (I hope all goes well). 

I wanted you to know I am a Senior Citizen, and the Dell Reps were patient (Especially G.G. and N.M. before she dropped me).

I am a retired Quality and Customer Service National Director from a major communications company and former adjunct instructor of business for Central Michigan University. 

 I wanted to take the time to commend GG for a job well done. Somewhere in your process there were numerous breakdowns which has caused me grief and an uncomfortable feeling that my PC is still compromised. 

It has been 4 days since I sent the Email, and I was expecting a response from the Dell supervisor – Nothing as of yet.

Dr. Deming and other quality and process gurus would be disappointed.

Update February 14th,

I received an Email from a Dell Supervisor today expressing his apologies for himself his people and his company for the way my call was handled over two weeks ago. In addition, he said my case would be used to enhance their training process. I responded promptly thanking him for his response.

Second Process -

One of the aging issues one gets is failing eyesight due to Cataracts. My Optometrist sent me to the Ophthalmic Specialists of Michigan (OSM). I was amazed the efficiency and effectiveness of their operation. From the moment I entered the door I was greeted by two receptionists with very outgoing and bubbly attitudes for welcoming patients. After taking my information I was seated in the waiting room and within 10 minutes I was called back to the first of three eye specialist technicians that each had a process (Check current glasses and prescription, Eye Drops, Measurements, Eye Tests) for me to follow before seeing the Eye Surgeon.

The Doctor was kind and brief and explained I needed new lens in both of my eyes and that I would see great again. After he left, I saw another technician and then a scheduler who went over all of the procedures and medical information. She also set up all of my visits for surgery and post-checks.

Today, I had my first surgery at a different location and again the process was smooth, timely and very professional. As soon as I entered the surgery room, I was met by two nurses who set me up for surgery and explained the process. Next a Medical Doctor came over to check my health and vitals. Then the Nurse Anesthetist set me up and the next thing I knew I was in recovery and put in a wheelchair and my wife pulled the car around and I was on my way home.

I have a follow-up appointment tomorrow and back in 2 weeks for my other new lens. OMS has already followed-up with me today to make sure I was all right.

Time and Motion experts - Frank B. and Lillian M. Gilbreth would be proud!

When I first pulled in to the two different locations parking lots, they were extremely busy, and it looked like it was going to be a mess. Instead, they operate like and Beehive and Ant Hill with structured and the good type of chaos that every company should strive for if they want excellent customer service and most importantly returning customers’ that tell other people of their experiences (Both good and Bad).

Saturday, January 22, 2022

2022 Leaders Take Note!

  I created this Quote back in the early 1980s. One cannot be a Leader without both expressions working together not apart. Political Leaders especially must lead in this manner for the benefit of all.


Thursday, January 20, 2022

Pets - Welcome - "Mango"


IF EVER YOU NEED ME:

If ever you need me, I'll be right here, To chase away the sadness, And wipe away a tear. If ever you need me, I'll be two steps behind, To follow in your footsteps, And hear what's on your mind. If ever you need me, You'll never have to fear, That your presence isn't important, And your love isn't dear. If ever you need me, I'll always be around, to bring back the laughter, Where deep in your heart it's found. You'll never have to worry, For I'll always be here, To chase away the sadness, And wipe away a tear. I AM HERE FOR YOU! (even in spirit) ~author unknown

1/20/22                                                        Mango

Mango was bred and born in Hawaii. She is with a loving family who are thrilled to have her join their clan. 


                                      In Memory of Cricket (2009 - 2021)
3/31/21
Our beloved Cricket passed away today just shy of her 12th Birthday April 15th. Cricket was my daughter's dog for the first part of her life and stayed with us until her death. She was a welcome addition to Angie and Maggie and having three dogs at the same time was a challenge and a blessing.
Cricket had the most gentlest disposition of any dog I ever had. She "NEVER" showed any aggression or meanness towards any human or another animal.  She loved to eat but because of her seizures and medications she was on a strict diet. 

I will always love and cherish the time we had together. Christmas 2011.
Tug of War with Maggie was always fun to watch! 

In Memory of Angie (2003 - 2020)
6/4/20
Our lovely Angie passed away today in my arms. She died peacefully and I am so grateful that I had her for 16 1/2 years. - November 30, 2003 to June 4th, 2020.

She was a great family dog and best friend who never tried to bite or nip at anyone. She did like to snipe up for a kiss and always wanted to sit/lay next to me at all times. No matter where I went or walked around outside, she would sit at the end of our yard and watch/wait for me to come home.

Thank you for saving my life Angie in 2004. Cricket will miss you too!



In Memory of Maggie Mae (2004 - 2013)


9/9/13
We had to put Maggie (The Protector) down today because of Diabetes. She went fast and did not feel any pain even though she has had a very bad few weeks with rapid weight loss and other symptoms. Her sister Angie will miss her.

Before going to the Vet I took her to her favorite park today and she was able to chase a few squirrels and bunnies. I gave her some treats too. At the Vet's I held her and looked into her eyes as she passed. Here a few videos from this summer and last winter.

She will be missed by all; especially Angie (her sister and me). Lorelai and Cricket too!


Maggie was the leader of the Pack!


2006
In Memory of Lady Arwen of Wesley (1980 - 1994)

Arwen

IF EVER YOU NEED ME:
If ever you need me, I'll be right here, To chase away the sadness, And wipe away a tear. If ever you need me, I'll be two steps behind, To follow in your footsteps, And hear what's on your mind. If ever you need me, You'll never have to fear, That your presence isn't important, And your love isn't dear. If ever you need me, I'll always be around, to bring back the laughter, Where deep in your heart it's found. You'll never have to worry, For I'll always be here, To chase away the sadness, And wipe away a tear. I AM HERE FOR YOU! (even in spirit) ~author unknown

The following are pictures of Pets that belong to qualitygloggers (Friends, Family; Bloggers who visit the site): Click on picture to enlarge.

The Girls! Maggie, Angie, and Katie

Grandma and the Girls


Rista - Here Kitty, Kitty! Posted by Hello

Dear Cousin Simba, there is a big Doberman that wants to meet you.
Cousin Chloe Flynn



Buddy and Pals (Kristine, Tracy and Brian)

Sugar says... Grandma, I only have eyes for You!

Schotz says... Hold Me, Hold Me Too!

The Life of Riley
Judy's Babies
Jesse - anyone want to play marbles?

"Ditto and Elsa"

qualityg has been getting a lot of cat pictures and emails with cats. No, I have not gone over to the other side, but I wish my dog loving friends would send some Pictures (i.e., Paul A, Thad B, Robbie F, Gina S, Linda L, Patti H, Greg K, John C...).
Below are Pat's Office Assistants, "Ditto and Elsa" - I've had assistants that lay around like that...

Carhartt or Cathartt??


Sophies Choice - Big John ---> I only have eyes for you


After a long walk and run chasing squirrels
It's time for a treat!




















Mo Lovin for GHOST!


updated 3/06/06

"Bailey" Dog of The Day

This is our beautiful dog, Bailey, aka Pupadupolous. We have had this good girl since she was four weeks old. She was abandoned by her mother and we rescued her from a Doberman second chance rescue. From day one she has been the sweetest and most obedient pet a family could ask for. From Gina, Harold, Erica, Morgan & Monica.


Billy, Bella and the Girls

Friday, December 31, 2021

So Long 2021 - Another 2020...


December 31, 2021,

2021 has been an extension of the landscape of 2020. Good riddance to 2021 too. Let's hope 2022 brings fresh optimism, good health and peace to all.



December 31, 2020




Friday, December 17, 2021

"No one has to change, survival is optional" - The Power of Purpose

 

I had this sign made years ago and it always had a place above my desk. Dr. Deming's message and many many more like it are so relevant today when employees and employers are at odds over so many issues facing workers in today's viral work environment.

Consider donating at the Deming Institute or better yest contact them to help your company move forward and transform into a company that cares. https://deming.org/donate-2021/

Another way to donate is to do what I did and sign up at Amazon Smile. Amazon will contribute a percentage of what you buy to the Deming Institute https://smile.amazon.com/gp/chpf/homepage?orig=%2F

When I first read this quote by Dr. Deming it reminded me of one of my other favorite quotes by Charles Darwin:

" It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent, but the one most adaptable to change."

Perhaps, that is why the cockroach has survived so long (320 million years) on earth.