Introduction

Introduction

This project studies how Designer Shoe Warehouse (DSW) uses Management Information Systems (MIS). We are focusing on its Point of Sale (POS) systems and inventory management processes. In today’s retail environment, companies like DSW depend a lot on digital tools to ensure accurate tracking of sales and product availability. The purpose of this project is to analyze how MIS supports DSW’s operations, especially in maintaining efficient POS systems and inventory flow and to identify areas where improvements could be made. DSW is a leading footwear retailer with more than 500 store locations across the United States and a good online platform.  

Thesis Statement

This report argues that DSW’s success in managing inventory and sales operations relies heavily on its use of Point of Sale (POS) systems and inventory tracking through MIS, and that optimizing these systems further can lead to improved efficiency, customer experience and overall business performance. 

Company Information

DSW has 500 locations in the U.S and 150 stores in Canada. As of 2024, they employ approximately 14,000 individuals. This company has in house brands like Vince Camuto, Crown Vintage, Keds, and Lucky Brand. DSW had partnered with Nike, Adidas, Brooks, and Steve Madden. For the DSW loyalty program, they have over 27 million members as of 2025. DSW’s critical processes are merchandising and buying, which means following the latest trends. They have to manage inventory and handle distribution centers. They have to manage their own website, so they can grow a portion of their revenue, which comes from their digital sales. Lastly, they have to maintain customer loyalty by engaging customers through marketing and rewards. This is also important to maintain good brand recognition, so that they can continue growing their company in the future. 

Interview

For our interview, we spoke with the store manager, Charles Whitaker. He works in the DSW Designer Brands store in Watchung, NJ. We focused on inquiring about MIS tools the store uses to manage inventory and point-of-sale (POS) processes. As a disclaimer, the questions are answered in general terms instead of in specifics as it would violate the security agreement with the company. The interview questions and response are as follows: 

About the System 

• What MIS tools or software does DSW use to manage inventory and the point-of-sale process? 
• "We utilize two different systems, each for inventory purposes and for POS. Although, they are different systems, they do communicate with one another." 

• How do these systems help track product availability, restocking, and customer transactions? 
• "There is a system that tracks sales and sales metrics, and that is how we retrieve our sales reporting. The inventory system shows products available in the store and any transfers coming in or going out." 

• Is this system used across all DSW or it is specific to this location? 
• "We don't have access to other stores' inventory. Although, all stores use the same system."  

Efficiency and Impact

• How has MIS improved the speed or accuracy of inventory updates and sales tracking? 
• "There have been several improvements to our inventory system over the past few years. These improvements help better manage inventory and review sales to ensure the proper amount of goods flow to the store based on the space planned for each product category."

• What happens if there's a system error or outage--how is that managed?
• "Errors occur, but there are back up programs that save essential data, such as customer transactions history. This helps avoid data loss and maintain continuity in store operations."

Security and Training 

• How are employees trained to use the system? Are there regular updates or refreshers? 
• "Cashiers are trained through computer-based training (CBT) modules. They also receive on-the-job systems training." 

• What kind of data security measures are in place to protect sales and customer data? 
• "There are security measures in the POS system that protect customer data. Access is limited for associates, and only managers can access post transactions and member data." 

Expansion

• Are there an internal documents, visuals, or system maps I could share (with permission) to illustrate the system to my class? Would you recommend anyone else within DSW, maybe someone in IT, operations, or corporate support, who could provide deeper insights into the MIS system? 
• While internal system diagrams or visuals were not made available for class presentation, the manager confirmed that DSW has robust documentation internally for operational use. They didn't identify another staff member for further interviews. 

Gantt Chart