Talking to a machine

Well, that was a first. I just called ParcerForce to rearrange a delivery of a package that they tried to deliver yesterday, and I got to talk to a machine. And I mean, really talk to a machine, not just navigate in a menu jungle: they had a voice recognition program. Or non-recognition, in my case anyway - first question was ok as they he/it was asking if I had previously asked for a redelivery (yes/no), but the next question was more complex. I wanted the package to be delivered to my local post office so I could go and pick it up when I have time (i.e. Saturday), but obviously the program had a problem with my accent and didn't understand what I was saying - but also they could have chosen an easier string than "local post office". After three failed attempts I got to talk to a real person and got the delivery arranged.

I knew these systems existed, I'd just never come across one before. Personally I'm more comfortable in navigating trough menus than trying to get a machine to understand what I want to say, but I can imagine that I might be in the minority here. The machine was very friendly, apologising for not being able to make the delivery and no doubt as these systems become more sophisticated we'll see/hear more of them.