Linecon was bad, but I think we all know that by now, and I'm sure staff knows that.
I'm also curious about what exactly caused the line. I've heard a few things (understaffing, reg system switch, systems issues), so it's possibly a combination of factors. I agree that the new reg location was clearly chosen with the expectation of everything going smoothly, but clearly, that did not happen. (Also really want to know about the reg system switch, and why that happened -- there's clearly a reason for it, but what is that reason? Are we going to hear anything about this? Did the system switch cause any of the backup? See also: my thread about my fan name being dropped between the new systems, which is a legitimate safety concern for me.)
The line itself seemed pretty disorganized, especially in the outside areas and when going between the convention center and Mariott. I realize that lack of staff to keep the line in order is an issue, and that the line probably wasn't anticipated, but would it be possible to have a line plan in place, just in case reg doesn't go smoothly? Plan out where a line would go, and then if one starts to form, clearly mark the areas so that walkways can be kept clear, the line doesn't intersect with itself, looping back on itself oddly, etc. I didn't stand in the line when it was mostly indoors on the lower level of the convention center on Saturday, but it seemed a little more organized at that point.
It only took me about an hour and a half to get my badge Friday morning (got there around 8:30, got my badge around 10), but I had friends who went on Saturday and said that the line was estimated at 4 hours (they almost left because of the length, but ended up going to CA to get their badges). The line wasn't Linecon 2013 levels of bad, at least? And hey, it gave me time to grade some papers. ;]