and, you see how fast they move at the firearms division?
if they move any slower, they'd be going backwards
There's that, and partially general common sense or courtesy. One being have your forms completed when stepping up to the window. If you don't, step aside while you fill out your paperwork and let folks with completed forms get helped.
It would be really helpful if the officer at the window facilitated that, but should be common sense. I went to renew my rifle permit yesterday and there were a mother and daughter filling out all of the forms for pistol permit, which is probably the most forms, at the window. Officer was just talking story, while there were at least 3 folks in line.
You're also made to fill out the "main" form at the station. The form with the serial number. That form can take some time to fill out, especially if someone has to fill out multiple for multiple firearms. So by not having that form such that you have to fill it out at the station takes time. Then there's the form to receive your permit by email. I opted to no go with that option, but they make you sign a form that you declined the option. The ladies in front of me took that option and that form took a while. Of course, trying to figure out their password, how to take a picture of the information, etc.

Anyways, long story wrapped up in that there are many ways to streamline the process IF HPD wanted to. I think some officers at the window do help facilitate, but the ones yesterday surely did not.