Business game


Business game refers to simulation games that are used as an educational tool for teaching business. Business games may be carried out for various business training such as: general management, finance, organizational behaviour, human resources, etc. Often, the term "business simulation" is used with the same meaning.
A business game has been defined as "a game with a business environment that can lead to one or both of the following results: the training of players in business skills or the evaluation of players' performances ".
Business games are used as a teaching method in universities, and more particularly in business schools, but also for executive education.
Simulation are considered to be an innovative learning method, and are often computer-based.

History

Computer-supported business simulation originated from military war games and came into existence during the late 1950s. Business simulation games, including non-computer-based board games and experiential activities, have since been used as a learning tool for teaching management . It is regularly in use at Universities, and in particularly by major business schools. As an example, the University of Washington has been using business simulation game in classes since 1957.
The INTOP tool was developed at the University of Chicago in 1963, and was employed for teaching in 160 institutions worldwide over the period 1963–1995. Its successor INTOPIA was first released in 1995, and it has been used by universities in over 55 countries around the world, including 18 in the U.S.
Business games are also used within companies for management training and development.