Reading the R&O working thread and the staff shuttle reminded me of an experience on the X66 recently.
Appreciate it is used by drivers and encouraged by management, but I'm still not convinced them using it to/from Riverside is actually a good thing as far as passengers are concerned.

A Metrocentre bound X66 was stopping at Dunston and a family sitting near the rear were ready to alight.
Pressing the bell not long after it cleared the lights near the old Garden Festival site, working through the already crowded saloon proved difficult.
Getting beyond the gaggle of drivers crowded around the front of the bus, even more so.

There must be a better way.
Appreciate it might not be as cost effective, but I am not sure this current method is working nor portraying the organisation in it's best light.