INTRODUCTION

 

This report's purpose is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of Lululemon's Management Information Systems (MIS) operation. Through this examination, we aim to evaluate current MIS strategies' effectiveness and alignment with Lululemon's business objectives. By assessing various aspects, such as information systems integration, process optimization, and technological infrastructure, we seek to identify areas of improvement and provide actionable recommendations to enhance Lululemon's MIS operation, ultimately contributing to the company's overall efficiency, competitiveness, and strategic growth.

Lululemon Athletica is an athletic apparel company that was founded in Vancouver, Canada in 1998. In just over 25 years since its inception, the company has grown to become the number four sportswear company in the world. With 655 stores worldwide, and roughly 34,000 employees, it boasted revenues of over $7 billion dollars in 2023. Despite its prices being on the high-end of the active wear spectrum, Lululemon has carved a niche for itself in a crowded market. While top competitors like Nike and Adidas often face criticism for labor practices which many deem unethical, Lululemon has established itself as a brand focused on the empowerment of its customers, employees, and suppliers, as well as other members of its supply chain. 

 It is practically a given in today’s business environment that any successful company, and certainly one who has grown as quickly as Lululemon, has made smart use of an MIS to keep up with competitors. Like its contemporaries, Lululemon employs the use of an MIS which is geared towards marketing and customer service. Our focus will be on how use of an MIS has helped the company establish itself as not just an athletic apparel company, but as a lifestyle brand concerned with its impact on people as well as the environment. We will explore how the use of its MIS has contributed to the sense of community-building that has helped the company distinguish itself in the market and create a competitive advantage. 

Our team member, Mackenzy Doremus, is an employee of Lululemon. She has some experience working with the MIS for the company and has agreed to interview Lauren Sapienza who is the Store Manager and Lead Coach at Lululemon’s South Portland location. Lauren Sapienza has been employed with Lululemon beginning as an educator making her way all the way to leading the South Portland community. Along with the significant information provided by Ms. Sapienza, there will also be record of other Lululemon employees' visions and experiences as the Lululemon community seeks opportunities as well as provides significant experience for all members. 

Company website: https://info.lululemon.com/about