12.02.2004
Thoughts on grocery store self-checkout lines
The last time I was in Duluth, these things hadn't invaded stores ... yet. However, here in Durango, Colorado (where I'm now living) they're everywhere. Part of me loves them, specifically the part that wants to buy glazed, raised doughnuts at 6am or new underwear* without talking to anyone.But now there are additional steps in the equation that determines which line to take my Campbell's Chunky Soup to. Before these things popped up, I just had to think about a) number of people in line, b) number of items each person has, c) perceived speed of clerk and d) perceived speed and/or method of payment person will use. (I worked at the checkout of Whole Foods Co-op for a few years, so I thought this through.)
Now I have to think about all or the above and whether or not I'm going to scan my own stuff. If I e) do self-checkout, I have to consider a, b and d, as well as f) amount of produce/PLU-required items the people in front of me have and g) perceived ignorance each person has about scanning stuff.
Why can't we just stand in line like the Soviets did?
* I could discuss this phenomenon more completely, but Paul Lundgren already has.