The McDonald's Economic Indicator
No, not the Big Mac Index (although that's interesting, too) -- the service index.
If you go into a McDonald's (or other chain fast-food restaurant) and you are served by a half-trained high-school student who is being bossed around by a slovenly mid-20s manager, the local economy is fine.
If the service is quick and accurate from a properly uniformed mid20s adult behind the register and the manager appears to be on the ball, the economy is in serious trouble.
If you go into a McDonald's (or other chain fast-food restaurant) and you are served by a half-trained high-school student who is being bossed around by a slovenly mid-20s manager, the local economy is fine.
If the service is quick and accurate from a properly uniformed mid20s adult behind the register and the manager appears to be on the ball, the economy is in serious trouble.