Undergraduate Research
Authors: Audrey McMillan (Iowa State University) , Emily M.S. Worrall (Iowa State University) , Megan Lenzi (Iowa State University) , Sadie Besch (Iowa State University) , Emma Carrel (Iowa State University) , Ann Marie Marie Fiore (Iowa State University) , Niehm S. Linda (Iowa State University) , Te-Lin Chung (Iowa State University) , Jessica L. Hurst (Iowa State University)
This study explores the impact of a team-based management structure on the performance of a small student-run multi-channel apparel retail store and in navigating the challenges faced in the competitive retail landscape. Facing dominance from large e-commerce corporations, small businesses encounter financial constraints and often have an ineffective web presence. The research develops three propositions to quantify small business performance: employee longevity, sales, and customer engagement. Utilizing a Midwest-based student-run store as a case study, the results reveal significant improvements in all metrics after the implementation of a team-based structure. Employee retention increased by over 50%, annual net sales rose by 44%, and social media reach experienced substantial growth. The study concludes that a team-based approach positively influences small business performance, recommending its adoption for enhanced outcomes, along with improved team coordination and cross-functional collaboration.
Keywords: Team-Based Management, Small Business, Apparel Retailers, Cross-Functional Teams
How to Cite: McMillan, A. , Worrall, E. M. , Lenzi, M. , Besch, S. , Carrel, E. , Fiore, A. M. , Linda, N. S. , Chung, T. & Hurst, J. L. (2024) “Under new management: The impact of team-based management on performance outcomes for a small student-run apparel retail store”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings. 80(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.17538
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