Disconnecting in a connected world

     I heard a radio interview with an NPR reporter and a Wall Street Journal writer trying to figure out how we can have such a high jobless rate while many firms are reporting having trouble finding people for the growing list of job openings.
     One reason speculated was that the workers don't live where the jobs are, another was that employers are being too picky because they figure with so many desperate people out there, they can find Mr. or Ms. Perfect, or that the jobs simply are not paying enough to cover the costs of working.
     But I think they hit on something big when one of the talkers said that some companies tested their on-line application system and discovered that the machines were tossing out potential workers before any human being talked to another human being.
     Kind of like trying to place an order by phone -- or on-line -- and getting cut off.
     Or make reservations. Or get hold of your doctor's office.
     Which password did you use the last time?
     Computer programs are rejecting applicants to the point that one firm was shocked to discover that every applicant that attempted to file an application for a job was turned down on line.
     Another company found out that, according to the software program they were using to take applications, no one who currently worked for the company was qualified. Including the founders and executives.
     "Hello? Is anybody out there?"
     "We're sorry, your application has not been processed. Thank your for your interest in working for Cybernone. BLIP!"
     Guess the next big thing will be an Ap for filing Aps.