A benefit (and possible business idea) of this week’s travels abroad are two gem websites designed to help one quickly bypass phone “service” PBX queues and get to the right live person that can help you with your problem. Twice today I have been flummoxed by automated phone systems that will not let me speak to a live human.

The first was Northwest Airlines where a friendly voice comes on and works you through 5 voice menus as she each time reminds me that the answer can be found on the nwa.com website. The first time I called I dutifully did as the PBX tips website suggested and repeatedly hit 0-0-0-0-0-0 to get to a live person queue where (I could not make this up), the voice said, “I am sorry but due to high volume of calls we cannot help you, please check our website” and it promptly disconnected me. Second time through the system, I got to a live person who started out by referring me to the website but because my reservation was via one of their partner airlines she did help me.

I tried later to order an item seen on television. I went to their website and there was a telephone number, called the number and there was no way at all to speak to a live person. They were going to handle the entire transaction without speaking once with me.

I was aghast. My sister shrugged and said, “what are you gonna do?”

So these two websites are my gift to my host country and a business idea much needed in the UK. The Consumerist sends out RSS feeds and gives the latest info on how to reach senior executives inside of key banks, insurance companies, computer, cable television providers and much, much more. It’s just like have Sir Terry Tesco or BT Ben’s direct dial number. The VOIP News has a fabulous article with tips on how to get around it all.

Both are must bookmark and The Consumerist sends out RSS feeds.

Imagine the power, can you feel it?

Good.

Now some UK entrepreneur, please get out there and help those of us in the UK sitting at the mercy of these arrogant companies!