[admin]

I had an interesting support conversation with a well known hosting company today, and wanted to share it because it was both funny, and frustrating. While I admit our support here at WebsiteCM can always improve, this scenario illustrates why we would rather keep the support in house and deal with volume, than attempt to outsource. As a courtesy to the company, I will not name them, but let's just say they have two types of support communication: 1(way)&1(way).

JON: Hi, I'm having an issue whereas I've implemented .htaccess code for rewrite on my client's site, and the code is valid, however it's not functioning.

OPERATOR: Sir, what is the purpose of this .htaccess rewrite code?

JON: To achieve Search Engine Friendly Urls.

OPERATOR: So you want to get your site listed in search engines including google. Is this correct?

JON: Well yes, but by using search engine friendly urls.

OPERATOR: Sir, you do not need htaccess code for this. Sir if you will, please log into your (company name) control panel.

JON: Uh, OK I'm logged in already.

OPERATOR: Go to administration. Scroll down until you see Marketing Center. Click on Simple Submission.

JON: No, I'm not trying to submit my site to the search engines, I'm trying to implement search engine friendly urls using .htaccess.

OPERATOR: But you said you wanted to achieve listing in search engines.

JON: Ugh. Is there somewhere in the control panel I can submit a ticket with details.

OPERATOR: A ticket?

JON: An email?

OPERATOR: Ok sir. I understand you want to be able to send email from your (company name) control panel.

JON: I'm sorry, but I have to go. (click)

Note: The above transcription is not 100% accurate but was done to the best of my ability after the initial conversation took place.