Basic HTML Version
PAGE 6
PASTOR GENERAL'S REPORT, JANUARY 25, 1985
DTE enables routine phone calls, such as literature requests and simple ad
dress changes, to be processed entirely by computer while the operator is
speaking to the person calling in.
A pilot DTE program began in September 1982, and its first regular use was
approved in February 1983. Since that time, more and more operators have
been trained. Big Sandy began using DTE in July 1984. Currently, about 30%
of all weekend TV calls are taken by DTE operators. During the week, as
many calls as possible are handled by this method.
DTE has several important benefits. It eliminates the need for filling out
WATS cards, which must go through numerous handling steps. Typing names
and addresses directly into the computer terminal is much faster. Also,
the date, time of the call, and operator's name are automatically·recorded.
Even the TV stations are automatically identified and tallied for our rec
ords.
With DTE, error rates have dropped. The computer, for example, will not ac
cept an incorrect zip code or a request for outdated literature. Since the
operator has the person on the line, any problems or questions can be
resolved on the spot. Our ultimate goal is to expand DTE to accept nearly
all calls in response to the Church's media programs.
Children's Interest in The PLAIN TRUTH
A surprising number of youngsters age 12 and under are avid readers of The
PLAIN TRUTH. Some even subscribe on their own. Like our adult readers,
these children not only appreciate the informative articles but also the
fact that the magazine is sent without subscription price. They have their
own unique ways of saying "thank you," as the following letters show:
My mother subscribes to The PLAIN TRUTH. But she doesn't let me
read hers. That's why I subscribe too. I hope you understand. I
like subscribing books from you. You learn a great deal from
your magazines. You sell them for no price. You have the lowest
price, lower than READER'S DIGEST or anything you can name. I am
very interested in your marvelous books. Can you please send me
The GOOD NEWS? So let it be written, so let it be done.
D.S. (Rockland, MA)
I don't expect you to answer this letter. I just wanted to tell
you I really thank you for sending the Word of God. You are a
fantastic man. You and The PLAIN TRUTH have made me understand
more about God.
Before, I hardly ever went to church. Then one Sunday, I went to
my grandmother's house. She asked me some Bible questions. I
couldn't answer them. I was only ten and confused. She gave me a
subscription to The PLAIN TRUTH. I read the first copy and so did
my mom. I started to understand. Then we started going to church
and have been for almost a year.
When the title says The PLAIN TRUTH, a magazine of understanding,
it's the truth. I thought it needed to be passed around so I gave