A Department Store Chain Is Designing a Layout for a New

Essay

A department store chain is designing a layout for a new store. The store manager wants to provide as much convenience as possible for her customers. Based on historical data, the number of trips between departments per hour is given in the following closeness matrix. A block plan showing a preliminary layout is also shown.

Customer travel between departments is restricted to the aisles shown in the block plan as dotted lines.
CALCULATIONS TABLE

a. What is the total expected weighted-distance score between Office Supplies and Hardware?
b. What is the total weighted-distance score between Hardware and Toys?
c. What is the total weighted-distance score for the entire store?
d. A suggestion has been made to switch Hardware and Automotive. What would the total weighted-distance score for the entire store be if these two departments were switched?
e. Based on your calculations, would you recommend that Hardware and Automotive be switched?