Valley General Hospital
Valley General Hospital is the regional public health hospital for east Snohomish County. After 35 years of serving the public, the hospital’s Joyce Stewart Gift Shop, operated by the Hospital Guild, was ready for a complete transformation. The Guild called on Works Consulting to lead the project.
Challenge
Joyce Stewart Gift Shop, operated by the Hospital Guild, was ready for a complete transformation and needed guidance and a fresh perspective to tackle the large task.
Solution
On a fast track schedule, Works Consulting directed a complete makeover of Valley General’s gift shop which included a total remodel of the shop space and selecting new display fixtures and lighting. New product offerings were added and more efficient buying strategies were developed. A clear, concise volunteer procedures manual was documented and volunteers and staff thoroughly trained.
Results
The project was accomplished on time and on budget. Results included an increase in daily sales, improved store layout and design, desirable merchandise and a motivated group of volunteer staff.
“Valley General Hospital Gift Shop retained Miriam Works of Works Consulting to do a full assessment of our gift shop, to include a full remodel/redesign. We wanted to move from a trinket/plush gift shop to one more suited to expanding our customer base to include hospital employees as well as hospital visitors.
Miriam provided a full assessment of the current status and the future potential of the gift shop. Our gift shop had not been changed since 1992 when it opened in its new location. Miriam showed great sensitivity in working with our long-time volunteers, always praising them for their efforts and history.
Once we agreed on the proposal, Miriam drafted a work plan. She met with us frequently and allowed us to adjust the plan to keep within our budget. She assessed our abilities and took us on a buying trip to teach us how and what to buy. She wrote specific procedures for our volunteers and conducted training sessions on the use of new equipment, etc.
She assisted us in the purchase of new display units and taught us about layout and display. When the gift shop re-opened, we met with great success. One year later, visitors and staff still talk about the changes and how pleased they are with the ‘new’ gift shop. I would not hesitate to recommend Miriam and Works Consulting. She did a remarkable job with great sensitivity and understanding.”
