Marvin McGregor, regional manager of a nationwide computer store, is faced with the task to recommend the best location for a new store. His company has just decided to expand the firm’s commercial operation by opening 10 new stores in the next three months – one in his region.

He and his assistant manager Phoebe Low, first set about their Critical, Creative and Productive Thinking, Preparation Stage:

(a) Conducting a detailed study of the total region’s population growth and areas of future potential.
(b) Gathering statistics on the average income of employees in the cities, towns and rural communities.
(c) Compiling the age statistics of local residents.
(d) Listing possible quality locations suitable and ideal for establishing a new store.
(e) Charting the range of rental costs of the available premises in each area.
(f) Determining what computer retail competitors are operating in each geographical location.
(g) Noting the proximity of local secondary schools, vocational training and tertiary institutions.
(h) Estimated cost of establishing and fitting out new premises.
(i) Creating a dossier on the number and size of the internet cafes near each available rental site.
(j) Developing a list of government and semi-government offices in each area.
(k) Compiling a list of commercial that have recently closed in each area.
(l) Checking local government by-laws, regulations and parking restrictions.

After careful consideration a short list of five potential locations is made. All these sites have advantages and disadvantages. The final decision will require some critical evaluation. Which one would you choose?