Had some interesting insight from some employees:

1. When I was travelling MSP-JFK recently, ITN/KVS showed P7 F7 when I checked in about 12 hours prior. Figured I'd have a chance with a BF UG, asked the GA if I had a chance on the waitlist (I was SE at this time). He printed out about 6-7 BP's and handed me mine from the stack. I asked him why I didn't get upgraded in advance and his reply was something like "With so many golds & plats, NW will hold off upgrading silvers so we have better seat selection." So yes, lately they are holding off UG'ing silvers.

2. Just booked some travel with Carlson Wagonlit. Travel agent says, "I see you're NW Gold. I'll place you on the UG list." I say, "How did you know that?" Reply: "We have access to NWA's system for travellers we book." I ask her more questions and it turns out she tells me that NW used to run EUA's twice daily - once at 2pm and once at 11pm. Then about a year ago they changed it to run 3 times daily. But she says she (and her coworkers) can't figure out how it runs and when it does. She think it may be something to do with the system load or real-time. Unlike most travel agents, she knew all about EUA's, fare basis, etc. So I think this is valid info. Only thing I couldn't understand was what she meant by placing me on the UG list. Doesn't that happen automatically with my elite status?

Anyone else ever hear stuff like this?