As the second day of the New York taxi strike begins over GPS and credit card technology, I’m left wondering what taxi drivers are making such a big fuss over. First, drivers are complaining that GPS is an invasion of privacy, and second, they argue that credit card transactions will cause a decrease in profits due to credit card fees.
Starting with the credit card transactions, I’m about 80% sure that drivers don’t have any actual data to back up their claims that they’re going to start making less money. Non-strikers say that the credit card capability will not only help business (by bringing in those with corporate credit cards), but also increase tips. This information comes from cabs that are already equipped with the proper gizmos.
What are taxi drivers trying to hide? What is this invasion of privacy talk? These drivers are working for a large company. I repeat, they’re working. I don’t demand a private office when I’m at work, and I don’t see much reason drivers should care a whole lot. If someone is slacking, taking shady routes, or just plain doing something they’re not supposed to do, then they should be held accountable. Unless I’m mistaken, I don’t recall a whole lot of whining when San Francisco cabs had similar equipment installed.
So stop the fuss, and just mondernize up to the proper century, New York cab drivers. I’m sure Stamen Design and Cabspotting
