A massive, global retailer asked Emerson to update a systems manual, to be used as training, but we proposed a more innovative solution instead: a fashion magazine.

This innovative asset was a four-issue self-study guide for all store managers, the first consistent training to cross all of our client’s multiple brands.

The guide was tailored to the demographic: young, fashion-conscious employees with limited time and attention to focus on training. It included articles that addressed all facets of store operations, each written with a fashion columnist’s voice and highlighted by sharp images.

There were sections that included homework, shadowing and coach checks for feedback. And all articles were short, so employees could quickly learn, then get back on the floor.