I wrote in my FW column a few weeks ago of how I was reluctantly being dragged into the cyber world of the 21st Century. I admitted that I found emails cheap, quick and useful. And I told how I use the internet for research on a regular basis. That, I thought, was enough humble pie from someone who didn't rate the rechnology a few years ago.
Imagine my consternation this morning when I went into our local villageTesco's as I was passing the door to pick up a few things for my wife. She uses the farmers market whenever possible but its only held once a month and occasionally Terry Leahy benefits.
Anyway, I collected the goods required in my wire basket and headed for the checkout. But it was closed. Instead a bank of machines had been installed labelled "self check" and I had to find out how to use the wretched thing.
I suppose it wasn't too bad. There were written instructions and when I put the goods down on the wrong side of the robot a lady inside(??) put me right. I didn't have the right change on me or a credit card so had to find a £20 note from my pocket. While I was finding it the lady became impatient and repeated her instructions. I told her not to be in such a hurry but she ignored me.
Eventually I inserted the note into the slot provided - wondering if I would see any change. But very quickly some coins rolled out into a receptical on the front of the contraption and it was my correct change. I collected it in a bit of a daze and headed home with the groceries.
I suppose I have to admit it wasn't too difficult doing the transaction and I shall be better at it next time I call. But I can't help regretting the impersonal nature of the idea. It won't be long before we don't need people at all. Its hardly surprising unemployment is rising.