Design Merchandising 440

DSNM 440: Design Products and Services

Prerequisites: DSNM 341, DSNM 345; 2.5 in-major GPA; passing Internship Review Assessment

Credit Hours: (3)

A study of apparel and interior products and services offerings from budget to designer price points. Emphasis is on market segmentation and target market manipulations.

Note(s): Student cannot receive credit for both DSNM 420 and DSNM 440


Detailed Description of Course

This course is a study of the specialty markets within the textiles, apparel, home furnishings, and accessories industry. Topics covered include: market segmentation; market research techniques; topics and issues in specialty markets; market volatility in specialty lines; sustainability issues associated with design products; and the terminology used in marketing specialty lines; and merchandising at different price points within specialty lines.  Promotions for retail stores and staffing of retail stores are also covered.
    

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

Course content is delivered through lecture format. Active learning techniques such as in-class projects and critique will be employed to stimulate student learning. Experiential learning opportunities such as trips to retailers, hosting guest speakers, and trips to buying markets may be used to enhance course content.


Goals and Objectives of the Course

As a result of this course, the student will demonstrate:
1. Knowledge of retail store staffing activities based upon merchandising objectives.
2. Knowledge in the identification of sustainability issues associated with design products and services.
3. Understanding of retail store promotional activities and product offerings based upon merchandising objectives.
4. Understanding of the breadth and depth of the product and service offerings within the apparel and interior industry.
5. Understanding of the factors that influence consumer choice in the consumption of apparel and interior product and services.
6. Comprehension in the identification and selection of specific product and service design solutions that satisfy a target market.
7. Comprehension in communicating ideas in written, oral, and multi-media formats.


Assessment Measures

Exams, group assignments, critiques, and a comprehensive project will be used.


Other Course Information
None


Review and Approval
March 2010

1/2011