Since everything seems to take longer to complete these days, why shouldn’t we put more emphasis on a time lag factor?

For instance, if a contractor says that he will be on the job at a specific date, why not just go ahead and add 30 days so that no one gets in a tizzy about the time issue? If and when he begins the job, why not add a minimum of two weeks to every supplier who delivers product to the site? Do you really wonder why construction seemingly takes forever?

If an executive leaves a very important position with a major corporation, wait at least a year before evaluating his or her job performance. This way, the executive will be uncovered if short-term decisions are made that leaves detriments for the long-term effectiveness of the corporation and the person succeeding the one leaving. On the other hand, a light will shine on the positive decisions made for the company and be reflective of the one deserving the praise.

As is the custom in the Middle East, business and social meetings are set but not firm.  For example, let us meet at two o’clock, Inshallah.  Inshallah means “If God wills." Loosely translated, we will meet at the time unless something hinders one of the parties. Can you imagine how much slower the wheels of commerce would turn if the United States operated on a similar system?

Yes, of course, let us not forget the “next available attendant" routine.   Who would ever consider our time is valuable and we called to actually talk with someone on the phone to save time?

Still amazing to me is how businesses know that I will not be placing a million-dollar order, so there is no hurry to call me back.

Why not just file customer service in the archives next to the dinosaurs. No, COVID, you certainly have not helped any. So far automation has not sped up completion of my activities but, on the contrary, has actually just resulted in making me peeved.

Some segments already have a good handle on the time lag factor. Have you ordered a new car or truck lately? How long does it take? Try ordering an electrical transformer.

Kudos to the express package industry which has actually reversed the time lag factor and reduced the time from order to delivery. Way to go.

Let’s be patient.

Go ahead and finish reading this column.  I’ll wait for you.

Standard contributor Don Alexander can be contacted at dalexander@southernstandard.com