A few keystrokes update the information, providing other collectors with the most current data should they need to access the records. All of the information on the system is cross-indexed, allowing a collector to access a file by any number of criteria, including taxpayer name, property address or notice number. When they do, we just pull up their file on the system. Sitting right in front of me are the notes of past communications with this office. The silence is formidable as you give them feedback from their earlier conversations.
Collectors can work out payment schedules with delinquent taxpayers.
This information is also keyed into the system. If a taxpayer says the check will be in the mail at a particular time, a note of the promise is made. The promise is also tied to an electronic tickler. A magnetic tape from the mainframe is downloaded daily to the stand-alone minicomputer to update collection records. Both computers are located in the county's computer data center, located two blocks from the Trustee's office.