Improving Management Development Through Simulation Gaming

Abstract

Business games are often more costly and require more effort to implement than traditional programmes. However they are rapidly gaining favour as management development tools. Games incorporate a case history of the relevant industry and organisation; a set of realistic rules guiding business decisions; a computerised mathematical model which simulates a dynamic market. They offer possibilities for experiential learning in strategic planning and policy making, functional integration, financial analysis and control, team planning, “what if” analysis and interpersonal behavioural training. Games allow managers to experience failure without personal or organisational consequences. Methods of administering a game are explained and the learning process discussed. Case histories of game use in the Southwest Mat Processing Corporation Headquarters, the Southern Chemical Company and educational establishments in Honolulu are described. Emerging trends are discussed.

Citation

Keys, B. (1986), "Improving Management Development Through Simulation Gaming", Journal of Management Development, Vol. 5 No. 2, pp. 41-50. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb051608