Technology and Starbucks

Technology is used in many ways in Starbucks like Information Technology, Wi-Fi, and all business transactions internally and externally. Part of being a good leader is recognizing when one needs to have the right tools for the right job and technology provides one with the right tools to effectively plan, lead, control, organize employees, costs and the supply chain. When it comes to planning Starbucks utilizes technology to its fullest by developing strategic and operational plans for the work group, managing execution, and measuring results. Planning is used for everything when it comes to hiring, opening a new store, or even the creation of the company; technology is used to help. Starbucks uses the Internet as a search tool to advertise the need for new managers and employees when they open a new store.

At this moment Starbucks is planning a deal with Hewlett Packard, which is an in-store music service that allows customers to choose the music they like out 250,000 songs and have it burned onto a CD for a fee. The first music Starbucks store opened in Santa Monica, California on March 16, 2006 and additional plans to incorporate it into 2,500 stores is underway. A lot of planning is done when making such a major decision like this because it can have a major impact on the whole social climate of the business.

It also requires lots of planning when choosing the right candidate for top management positions at Starbucks. Information such as the following is accessible on the Internet at Jobster .com, (2006); Starbucks is looking for a Regional Director of Operations it requires one to direct and continuously improve store operations within the region to meet company objectives for operational excellence. Identifies, plans and executes areas for improvement to ensure consistent legendary service to customers. Plans and executes strategies to increase sales while controlling operational costs within the assigned region. Identifies trends and forecasts store budgets; implements regional and zone initiatives to support Starbucks business objectives; manages business unit/department processes and practices to ensure that programs are aligned with company business goals and objectives. Prepares, communicates and educates client groups and team on changes in policies and practices within the organization using modern technology. Starbucks requires these managers to have knowledge in all Microsoft software programs such as, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Organizing and controlling many stores requires good software. As a leader or manager it