Concern re: Magical Gatherings Financially taxing on DVC

[InstImpres]

I called last night to book a Magical Gatherings Cruise. I was told since I was staying on points it must be done with DVC MS. I just spent 22 minutes on the phone because the computers are "not connected". I was obviously asked for my mem number and verified all info. I was on hold for a few of the minutes while she confirmed how to book MG. Than I had to regive all my info (address, phone, etc not transferable). 19 minutes into the call, I was told that MS is the middle man and the MG computer is down, they were very sorry but could I call back in an hour or so. I asked what part of my MG ressie was complete and the answer was none

Obviously, this is time consuming for me, but why are my (and your) dues paying for what will probably amount to at least 45 minute call (using the 800 number we pay for) and 45 minutes of an MS reps time?

I am concerned about the impact on dues and easy of making ressie if MS reps are tied up for sooooooo long.

Any thoughts?

Sandy

 

[zulaya]

I agree wholeheartedly. I had hoped that by now they would have streamlined the system so that only the MG people have to deal with booking those special events. It's almost like WDW doesn't want DVC to be able to use these features, making it as difficult and convoluted as they have.

I will be making my Dec ressies here in the next month, and while I know I can't reserve anything until 90 days out, I am afraid I and the MS rep will have to do some major telephone dance to even get a MG number for me.

 

[zulaya]

Sandy--

I hope you call or e-mail Jackie and relate to her your experience. Perhaps on her end, she may be able to get the 2 ends together and work on making the process simpler.

 

[InstImpres]

Well 21 more minutes with DVC and 47 minutes with Magical Gatherings and I'm in!!!

I did also just speak with Jackie. She says something must not have been done correctly. My 21 minutes with DVC was identical to this morning, except with the computers working now I was assigned a Grand Gathering number. I was than given a number to call to make any Magical Gathering ressies. Although they could pull me up in the computer by my GG number none of my parties info was there. I had to start again spelling every name and giving every age. It supposedly took so long because the computer system was slow in processing. The CM and I spoke for about 5-8 minutes while waiting for the confirmation number.

All in all, I am booked and happy. Jackie also stated that although dues pay a portion of MS services a portion is paid by DVD so it should not be a big impact.

I still would like to see it stream lined.

JMHO
Sandy

 

[dianeschlicht]

I had a similar experience when trying to get my GG number a couple weeks ago for next October. I was on hold for 35 minutes,and she was never able to complete it before I had to get to my doctor appointment. I called back the next day, and they had my number waiting for me.

 

[PKS44]

I believe the part of dues that pays for Reservations is around half a penny per point....so a little extra time is unlikely to change it that much....