After working for several years as a regional manager for a national retailing organization, Schott Parry decided to open his own business. Susan Gonzalez, one of his district managers, has also wanted to go into business for herself. Together they formed S&S, Inc., to sell appliances and consumer electronics devices. Scott and Susan decide to pursue a “Clicks and Bricks” strategy. They began by renting a large and attractive building in a busy part of town but planned to add an electronic storefront as well.
Scott and Susan each contributed enough money to see them through the first six months of business. They estimated that they needed to hire 10 to 15 employees – 3 or 4 to stock the shelves, 3 or 4 customer sales representatives, and 4 to 7 checkout clerks. They plan to begin hiring these employees within the next two weeks.
Scott and Susan plan to hold the grand opening of S&S in five weeks. As they review what remains to be done to meet that deadline, they realize that they have not yet made the following important decisions:……