Silicon Investor (SI) -- The First Internet Community

STOCKTALK

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor. We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community. If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.

Technology Stocks : All About Sun Microsystems -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: uu who wrote (42323)	3/24/2001 3:57:40 AM
From: Charles Tutt	Respond to of 64865

I think where we disagree is in the distinction you make between gas stations and Best Buy (e.g.). I don't think there is a distinction. I don't think gas stations have crammed pay-at-the-pump down their customers' throats (well, maybe a little), or increased prices to cover the costs. More likely they've achieved efficiencies by installing such systems, and shared the savings with their customers. Similarly, Best Buy can capture increased sales by making shopping at their stores easier, and thereby pay out the systems without increasing (or possibly even decreasing) prices. You seem to look at these systems as cost centers. Others might look at them as profit centers. It's a perception thing (like the stock market!). JMHO. Charles Tutt (TM)

To: uu who wrote (42323)	3/24/2001 7:52:29 AM
From: John Carragher	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 64865

addi "What seems to be misuderstood is the fact that up to now people have thought that everything that appears to provide a form of convenience and/or "neat" way of doing things can ultimately result in actual real profits. Paying at the Gas station using your credit card without dealing with live person is definitely a very convenient way of filling up your car with gas. Oil companies have gone through a trmendous amount of effort and cost to make sure this conveneince is provided at their pumps for which they have passed on the operational cost associated witih this convenience to their customers. And customers have no choice but to accept the passed on cost!" This should say oil companies passed on the savings to customers. Gasoline is very competitive. The decision for self serve was a nightmare for executives to implement. Older established mangers never felt a woman would put her own gas in a car. They also felt the snack shop would lose business due to drive offs. the smart card now even makes it much easier to buy gas esp. the ones with the transmitter in your rear window like mine. I understand Mc Donalds is also testing smart cards to pay for items in the drive through. My point is consumers are not paying for the technology they are getting improved service at a cheaper more competitive price. The pay out for some of these systems is almost immediate. fyi John