January 14, 2007:
You're taking over as the manager of an international import retail store in a large suburban mall. It's a big store, two or three stories; yet it's run-down, with a dilapidated wood and movie-poster feel. After a day of interviews and inspection it's not difficult to know what needs doing. First, more tourists must be bussed in from the hotels to the mall. Second, more shoppers must be attracted from the mall to the store. Third, more customers must be encouraged to return more than once. It's all about visibility. You make two immediate decisions. The store's colors will be consistent: scarlet and gold. Plus, all posters visible to customers will relate to the store's products.