Starbucks Observation

For the assignment, I went with Rosy Perez to observe people at the Starbucks located on Cooper Street in Arlington, Texas. Although this was not a new location for either one of us, we picked to observe the establishment on Valentine’s Day. The hope was that a holiday might change the setting. By choosing a Starbucks, there was a greater possibility to blend in to the surroundings better.

I entered Starbucks a few minutes before 11 A.M. to allow myself the opportunity to order a drink before observing. Upon entering the establishment, there is a clear pathway to the cash register area and there was pop music playing louder than most people talking in the Starbucks. The establishment is lit by a combination of natural light from windows on the left side of the entrance and track lights scattered throughout the establishment. People do not look up or seem distracted when individuals walk in with the exception of the Baristas (employees). A quick scan of the room shows groups are seated on the right hand side of the room and individuals without a group are seated on the left side of the room.

To effective describe the setting; I have divided the room into three sections. The first section is the left side of the Starbucks, the second section is the ride side of the Starbucks,

The only section of the Starbucks that was involved with many of the patrons was the Barista section. It can be argued if you come to this particular Starbucks that is expected for you to be loud and expressive if you are in a group, but if you are by yourself, you are more likely to be quiet and reserved. The observation did prove that you are more likely to buy a drink if you are in a group and less likely to buy anything if you are by yourself. The two sides of the room did share one common bond of race. In general, the Starbucks location had more White individuals in the establishment than any other