| An interactive computer simulation
where participants act as the board of directors of an imaginary wholesale business.
In successive time periods (representing half-years) they decide on the policies
to be followed and on their responses to a number of ‘Agenda Items’
(a distinctive feature of this simulation). The game avoids excessive detail and
concentrates instead on how the company should direct its efforts within a large
number of market segments. The exercise is designed for groups of 4-6 members
each with between 3 and 6 groups in each league. The first period requires between
60 - 90 minutes and there are five periods if the game is played to the end. These
periods can be broken up and interspersed with other activities.
OBJECTIVE
The exercise is designed to give managers experience of ‘strategy’ at
board level. It will:
- focus attention on strategic rather than tactical
issues;
- emphasise the link between the company’s
perceived image and financial performance;
- increase the skill of participants in reading
financial reports, analysing market data and perceiving opportunities;
- bridge the gap between functional and general
management.
HOW IT WORKS
The tutor introduces the players to their imaginary company and the area of its
operation. The players are then given time to make a number of broad strategic
decisions concerning the direction they wish the company to take and the image
that they wish it to adopt. While some of the decisions are ‘financial’
there is an equal emphasis on ‘human’ issues which are included through
agenda items. Once the first decisions are made the tutor enters them into the
computer which calculates the teams results and produces a profit/loss account,
balance sheet and a report on the agenda items. The game progresses through a
series of half year periods.
WHAT PARTICIPANTS WILL BE DOING
Debating strategic options; making decisions and recording them on a form; dealing
with ‘Agenda items’ that cover a wide range of qualitative problems.
FOR WHAT LEVELS IS IT APPROPRIATE?
All those concerned with business strategy.
INCLUDED
Tutor manual; Player’s instructions; Program disc and all supporting documentation
COST
90 day license £575 plus VAT and delivery
Full license £975 plus VAT and delivery
CONSULTANCY VERSION
Includes a copy of the packaged game and tutor backup on the first day the exercise
is used costs £975 plus expenses and VAT. It is also possible to create
supplementary agenda items to reflect specific issues of concern to an organisation.
Prices for this service are available on request. More
details
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