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Technical Problems & Root Causes

Understanding the systematic failures in Colombia's Check MIG platform

Colombia's Check MIG system represents a critical failure in digital government infrastructure, where inadequate server capacity, poor software architecture, and insufficient quality testing have created an unreliable platform that consistently fails travelers at crucial moments. The mandatory nature of this form, combined with its technical instability, has transformed what should be a simple pre-registration process into a source of significant travel anxiety and missed flight connections.

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Server Infrastructure Failures
Government servers cannot handle peak traffic loads, resulting in complete website crashes during busy travel periods. The system lacks adequate load balancing and redundancy measures, causing total service outages when travelers need it most.
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Browser Compatibility Issues
The platform only functions reliably on specific browser versions, primarily Google Chrome. Safari, Firefox, and mobile browsers frequently experience form submission failures, limiting accessibility for travelers using different devices.
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Mobile Application Defects
The official Check MIG app maintains a two-star rating due to fundamental programming errors. Critical failures include QR code generation problems, missing email confirmations, and complete form data loss during submission attempts.
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Flight Database Integration Problems
The system frequently fails to recognize valid flight numbers, dropdown menus don't populate with airport options, and codeshare flights create confusion. Airlines update flight schedules faster than the Check MIG system can synchronize.
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Translation and Localization Errors
Incomplete translations leave critical form fields in Spanish only, even when users select English or French. Poor translation quality creates confusion about required information and proper form completion procedures.
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Data Persistence Failures
Partially completed forms lose all entered data when pages refresh or time out. No auto-save functionality means travelers must restart the entire process after system crashes, multiplying frustration and time investment.

These technical problems stem from inadequate development resources, insufficient user testing, and poor project management within Colombian immigration technology initiatives. The government has acknowledged these issues but has not provided timeline commitments for substantial improvements, leaving travelers dependent on workaround solutions and professional assistance services.

💡 Critical Impact on International Travel
System failures have resulted in thousands of missed flights, denied boarding situations, and significant financial losses for travelers. The unreliable nature of the official platform has created a secondary market for professional form completion services, highlighting the severity of government technology shortcomings.