Wishful thinking aside, you're probably right. Still the subtraction of some of the human (and company) element from the scheduling process would probably benefit both sides, if the correct software was put in place. And more open time would mean that their precious "reserve coverage" would be maintained, along with fewer junior mans for us. Delaying flights and scrambling for last-minute junior mans doesn't seem like the right answer to me.

If cost truly is one of their reasons to deny a drop/add open time, why is that never in the comments for the denial? How do you get instantly denied a drop/swap that's a month away? And with 20+ reserves available that day?

At least a more automated system would be more consistent, reliable, and not deny changes because it's not in a good mood. It would have set parameters that are more or less known to everyone. Then the humans can focus on how to properly list crew members for deadheads so they don't miss their flights home