For class discussion, come prepared to engage with our guest about the following metaphor:
Narrative
A golfer spent the last 20 years of life perfecting his/her game. He/she invested heavily in golf equipment (clubs, shoes, balls, umbrellas, carts), lessons (multiple levels over multiple years) and even club memberships and, of course, the all-important wardrobe...for sun, rain, and wind.
As a result, the golfer has developed a solid game, strong reputation and has even won a couple of amateur tournaments and club championships...and has the trophies to show for it!
The golfer meets and marries a long-time, highly-skilled amateur road-biker. Who likewise has made all the similar investments in equipment, training, clothing and who has also gained a reputation as a solid rider...winning numerous local and regional competitions.
After marrying, the couple decides that each wants the other to share in the experience and exuberance of participating in the other's sport of choice.
Please answer the following questions...
1. What are some of the key decisions each of the partners must make?
2. What are the potential hazards and detractors involved for each?
3. What are some likely complications?
4. Would you do this? Why or why not?
5. How is this like the decision that every bricks-and-mortar retailer faces?
Essay: Find a graph that represents a 10-year shift of store revenues to online revenues in the retail sector and answer the following questions:
1. Is the pace accelerating or decelerating?
2. What factors might prevent a retailer from quickly responding to this shift?
3. What are your personal experiences regarding online vs. in-store purchases?
4. What are your personal experiences regarding home delivery vs. click & collect?