This may be a silly question, but I just thought about it...

What exactly happens during OLCI? What does the process complete that does not have to be completed at the airport? And if it saves so much time and money, why do the check-in agents still do quite a bit of typing when I arrive at fast-bag drop and/or a regular desk? (Are they on MSN?)

Of course, I understand the uses and benefits to myself. Even beyond the regular benefits (i.e. turning up to flight late and still be allowed to board due to having OLCI'ed or being told the upgrade was due to the knowledge I would probably show up for the flight).

Could it also be that I have not checked-in the old-fashioned way in such a long time that I have forgotten how long it actually takes???