The project could work, you just need a machine that converts Data packets into the type of packets that normally flow through sewers. I call them data logs. You need a good filter at the other end so your data logs don't get mixed up with the human interface logs.
I love hopeless optimists! Ratbert and Asok fill those roles well. Dilbert used to, but lately...
Isn't it weird that Ratbert was an intern once too? They have the same facial expressions!