Future of Post Office Design

Picture a McDonalds or BurgerKing or many other fast food restaurants. There is a drive through facility. Upon entering the driver speaks into the mic giving his code to the attendant and any orders for boxes, stamps, or whatever is needed. Then the driver continues to the window where mail and purchases are handed out. Of course there would be a parking area to handle those who need to drop off or pick up packages. Inside is a “hot spot” as well as several computers where people can access their email.

Where would such an experiment begin? Well, rural delivery could be eliminated and the McDonalds model could be substituted. But it could spread to suburban areas and even to urban areas if the concept proves to be successful. One of the problems with the delivery of packages in urban areas is security. Packages tend to be stolen. This model has the potential of greatly improving security.

What would the back-end of the post office look like? There would have to be a warehouse where the mail is kept in, say, plastic tubs. These tubs would be automatically delivered to the attendant when requested.