Josh Goodman is a former staff writer for GOVERNING..
E-mail: mailbox@governing.comTwitter: @governing
Managing Expectations
from Governing's Managing Technology Conference in Seattle
When I worked at the Big Belly Deli, I had a philosophy when someone called in a carry-out order. I'd always lean toward overestimating the time that it would take to make a sandwich (telling the caller 20 minutes when I thought it would take 15), rather than underestimating the time. I figured that customers are never grouchy when their food is ready early, only when it's late.
I'm glad to find out that the same philosophy is alive and well in state government. The state of Washington has become the first state to develop an enhanced driver's license (complete with RFID, etc.) that doubles as a passport.
Since it takes a rigorous documentation check to get an EDL, you can't get one the day you apply. The state tells applicants that it will take two weeks for the EDL to arrive. However, Liz Luce, the director of the Department of Licensing, confided that often it takes just one week.
Twitter: @governing
Written and compiled by staff writers and editors, GOVERNING View is an on-the-ground, and sometimes behind-the-scenes, look at the topics we're covering in print and online. From notes on what's up in statehouses, county courthouses and city halls, to encounters with people, places and things, GOVERNING View is a window into the side of state and local government you don't always see.
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