Can Snail Mail turn into the Holy Grail?

Can snail mail evolve into the Holy Grail?  The USPS faces many challenges from a perceived decline in necessity to competitors such Amazon, Google, and Fed Ex.  Does the USPS have the right tools and resources to compete with their digitally advanced competitors or will their steady decline lead to demise.  Well the truth of the matter is that the USPS has the technology to compete with initiatives such as drone deliveries and 24/7 delivery lockers, but they face challenges that many government agencies face when it comes to being competitive.  They lack great funding and ultimately decisions regarding its success are made from political standpoints as opposed to business perspectives. Take a look at this article and look at how the USPS has the technology advancements to compete in today’s world but face challenges.

http://resources.idgenterprise.com/original/AST-0136185_CWD_2014_December.pdf (pgs.12-19)

The USPS has great minds with the technical knowledge comparable to those in Silicon Valley.  Postal workers cell phones are already being replaced with Mobile Delivery Devices that allow packages to be tracked in real time at any given point.  Imagine that a business owner would know exactly when a customer’s package arrives and can then instantly send an electronic communication to the customer with a receipt and possibly a coupon. These Mobile Delivery Devices are also equipped to allow carriers to adjust their course to the fastest and most productive routes.  Is it possible that we can all receive our mail before noon?  There is an influx of data and technology prevalent within the USPS that can reinvigorate its perception and lead to sustainability but will the normal government obstacles prevent its evolution?

Discussion questions?

1. Do you think the USPS can be competitive with technology leaders such as Amazon and Google?
2. With advancements in technology can the USPs change their “snail mail” perception?