Time for a little update again :-)
We are close to finishing the content of this update, and will begin bugfixing and balancing. But what have we been up to?
The population]
The city demographics has changed. So from being a city made of two values (wealth, and fashion sense) it now consist of various population groups, each with their own desires. Each segment have their own population and shopping patterns, so changing your opening hours might change the type of customers that enters the store. This also mean that you will need to gain reputation with each segment.
Customer interaction
Speaking of customers.
A lot of feedback have indicated the desire for a new customer interaction system. So we have made just that.
Increase a customers need for a specific category, or try to create a desire for a certain article.
Play the long game and spend a lot of time with one customer who then might go shopping crazy, or try and reach them all and increase the overall average sale.
If the store is completely empty, it is now also possible to go outside the store to try and convince people passing by to enter.
Staff talents
Away with the skills and in with talents. Your staff now need to learn how to perform various tasks. At first they are unsecure and make errors at new tasks, but will in time be very proficient and have special perks to their jobs. However they will ned to attend a course from time to time to unlock their true potential. So ask the right questions at the interview, or you might the the wrong employee, as they will not be able to perform all tasks from day one.
Marketing
Since there are a lot more reputation to uncover, you need some tools to do that. But fear not, the marketing functions has expanded.
In the store, it is now possible to make forum posts at your computer. Target an audience, make some posts, and watch them grow with views and comments, as they generate reputation.
In your office you can plan out bigger campaigns with the catalogue designer. Select the size, the magazine, drag your desired ads onto the pages and customize your campaign to your needs. Attract more customers, increase the desire for categories, or become more known at a certain segment. Do one or do them all, the choice is yours.
So this is what you can expect in the next update, and we hope that it will be well received. And as always feedback as very welcome.
Take care ːsteamhappyː