No magic, no skullduggery and very little hard work. Was there any special tools or programs used? No tools or programs were used. Just my the method I clearly put forth in my book Can anyone do it? If you can read and write you will be able to follow the easy steps outlined in my book. For years I have been putting up with poor customer service. Yes I was frustrated but I always gave up quickly. With complain to gain I learned to channel all of that frustration and put it to good use Ed Sam Queens town, N.Z . How long does it take? Well the actual process that involves you completely depends on you and the amount of effort and time you want to put forth. How long will it take before I see results? That really depends on what company you are dealing with how big they are etc etc What kinds of things have you used this program for? I have used it for obtaining the following: Free merchandise, free coupons, complimentary dinners, free hotel stays, breaking a contract for a cell phone, breaking a contract for an internet provider. Great book! Very informative. ...