By John Skinner and Jeremy Klipple

Steps  Step 1: Know exactly how to do the task This means you know how to do this- you're not guessing or reading someone else's ideas. You have done this yourself  Step 2: Plan how to write the steps in order Instructions are written in small increments (manageable tasks that are clear, easy to follow to completion).  Step 3: Write instructions beginning with a verb The reader must DO something each time  Step 4: Write each step as a small piece This means, each step should be small, a baby step in the whole process.

 Step 5: Include warnings as pre-steps Example: check (or close) the drain plug," must be a step before "add oil to the tank.“  Step 6: Write steps logically in order Don't depend on the reader going down the page and reading all the tips and warnings before beginning to do the process.  Step 7: Review and edit your instructions carefully

 Step 8: express steps in the positive For example, instead of saying "don't forget the salt," write "add salt when the eggs boil."  Step 9: Avoid expressing opinions, preferences or choices

A few benefits of clear instructions  Employees will have few questions to ask the manager.  Things will be done quicker and more efficient.  It will reduce procedural mistakes and costly errors.

20 common equipment used in a retail store

#1 POS System- computerized cash register

#2  Counterfeit money detector- helps employees know if the money is real or not.

#3  5 disc dvd/cd player- plays the music in the store.

#4  Direct thermal printer- prints labels for the store.

#5  Cash drawer- holds the cash

#6  Network server and phone system- allows managers and employees to communicate and take phone calls.

#7  Receipt printer- prints the receipt for the customer.

#8  Signature and smart card reader- allows customer to use credit cards and sign electronically.

#9 Money counter- counts the cash for the manager at the end of the day.

#10  Price computing scale- weighs the item and gives the price.

#11  Datalogic Scanner- shows price of the item and counts inventory.

#12  Barcode scanner- scans the item at the register.

#13  ATM machine- allows customers to get cash

#14  Hot display case- keeps items warm while they are waiting to be purchased.

 Refrigerated bakery display case- keeps items refrigerated while they wait to be purchased. #15

#16  Freezer display case- keeps items frozen while they are waiting to be sold

#17  Pager system- allows managers to get a hold of employees.

#18  Headset- allows employees to communicate when they are not face to face.

#19  Plastic security tags- prevent theft in a store.

#20  Handheld plastic security tag remover- removes the security from the clothing