Changes in Department Store Organization : Implications for Curriculum Requirements for Management Trainees

Abstract

Postwar changes in the modes of operation of traditional department stores (i.e., branching) have brought them organizationally closer to chains such as Wards, Sears, and Penneys. Consequently, this important segment of retail trade has ex perienced a greatly expanded need for floor management personnel. Specifically reported are department store managers' estimates of the appropriate curricular background for potential managers of store operation. Also reported are managers' evaluations of general success potential in terms of educational preparation. Thus, the aforementioned organization changes require curriculum adjustments that will benefit future managers in traditional department stores.