Things had changed now a days. Most of the interaction with IGNOU is through internet now. So less hassle and worries. I am in last year of three year BA course. My experience with ignou is more than satisfactory so far .
Once I had a problem with my first year assignment marks which were not included on my Grade card (accessible online). I overlooked it for an year thinking someday it will appear. Later I approached to Regional centre with this query. They directed me to study centre, and as I expected study center replied that they already sent hard copy of assignment a year before to main centre. Then I write a email to IGNOU Delhi and to my surprise, marks included in 2 days. That is the advantage of moving online. Experience may differ from place to place.
But indeed the course material and structure of notes provided by IGNOU is a class apart , focused on in depth understanding of the subject, be it arts, science, commerce or engg. After finishing my current course I am looking forward to join another program by IGNOU.