Ordering VARPG

 I just received my copy of VARPG and I was wondering if anyone had the
same experience in the ordering process.

 In mid-May I ordered VARPG on the web, using the URL that was mentioned on
Midrange-L.  The order went through fine.  The msg said it would take 5-6
weeks.  That seemed a bit excessive to me, since the order was electronic
and there's no hardware assmebly involved...

 I hear nothing for 7-8 weeks, so I call 1-800-IBM4YOU (IMHO one of the
best things IBM has done for customer support) to find out how to check on
the order.  They transfer me to a real live hummin' bean.  I think I'm
going to get some real service here; I'm thrilled.  That's when things
start to go South quickly.

 To start with, he had never heard of the product!!  This is supposed to be
someone that is involved in AS/400 product orders.  He decided he needed to
know the URL I ordered the product from.  I got that for him.  After
checking his system he acknowledged that this was an AS/400 product, but
couldn't find my order.  He took the info to place a new order and promised
to get back to me w/ the order # and shipping info.

 A week later, when I didn't hear from him, I called back.  He hadn't even
placed the order, since he asked me for more info to put into the order and
said I would receive it in about 4 days.  When that day passed I called
again. He asked for more info said I would receive it in 5 days.  This
happened 2 more times.  This also included a conversation w/ his manager to
get things moving.

 3 MONTHS after I first placed the order I receive a box from IBM.  I'm
excited to finally get ahold of the elusive VARPG.  I open the box and I
see three 1/2" tapes.  Huh?  This is supposed to be a CD for my PC!?!  It
turns out that it's the ADTS tapes.  I dig deeper - no CD!  ARGHH!!

 I call back again, almost giving up on this farce.  They promise to call
me back w/ a status and tracking number.

 The next day I receive a surprise package w/ the VARPG and Code/400 CDs.
Hooray!!

 Is this experience unusual or can this possibly be the reason some
products are not gaining much momentum?

 -mark

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