business simulation software for education

The Ultimate Guide to Business Simulations for Educators

Click here for a printable PDF of this article to print and share with your students.

Why use business simulations for education?

When it comes to workplace skills, traditional education is falling behind the curve.

This is troubling for high school and college educators everywhere. According to LinkedIn’s 2021 Workplace Learning Report , 57% of learning and development (L&D) professionals are turning to digital learning to educate their employees on the job, while 37% of them are reducing instructor-led training.

On-the-job training is on the rise. Just look at the trend away from college education in technical fields. Workplaces and schools alike can use business simulations as a way to solve this problem.

Business simulations are a risk-free training field that allow students to develop crucial workplace skills in a controlled environment. They bridge the gap between theory and practice.

What is a business simulation?

Business simulations are a form of “serious game,” designed with hands-on education as the primary goal.

The word “simulation” brings to mind popular entertainment games like The Sims 4 or SimCity. Business simulations aren’t designed purely for entertainment like these games, but they can be just as engaging.

Technically, a business simulation is anything that simulates a business environment. This can include board games, team-building role-play scenarios, or even choose-your-own adventure stories. That said, the most common — and most accessible — version of business simulations is the browser-based computer game.

A good business simulation breaks down a specific business-based environment such as restaurant management, entrepreneurship, or hospitality, and immerses students in that workspace.

Students must think critically and make crucial decisions fast. They then watch the consequences of their actions play out — for better or for worse.

What skills do business simulations teach?

Business simulations teach hard and soft skills tailored to their individual real-life counterparts. For example, your students may learn to start a business , manage a hotel , or conduct market research , among many other options.

Since hundreds of simulations exist, there are multiple ways of categorizing them and the skills they teach. In general, though, business simulations fall into three categories:

Executive Simulations

Students manage all aspects of their businesses as executives or CEOs.

Departmental Simulations

Students focus on mastering one segment of the business, like marketing or finance.

Concept Simulations

Students double down on a hyper-specific area, like sports management.

Different business simulations are tailored to address the challenges unique to each role. By choosing the right business simulation for your class, you can equip your students with skills to function in a real-life work environment.

Along with the hard skills that business simulations teach, students learn a variety of soft skills. These include:

• Critical thinking
• Decision-making under pressure
• Communication skills
• Self-motivated learning

After your students work through a simulation, you can help them reflect on what they’ve learned to lodge the experience firmly in their minds. Post-graduation, your students can draw on these skills to enter the job market several strides ahead of the rest.

Are business simulations effective?

Business simulations improve students’ understanding of their chosen field, but how can educators be sure that this tool is actually useful in the workplace?

To answer that question, let’s take a look at other industries that use simulations:

Firefighters use simulations to ensure their safety while learning to navigate burning buildings and rescue missions.

Medical professionals practice on plastic models and cadavers before anyone lets them near a living patient.

U.S. soldiers run through grueling training exercises and war games to ensure their preparation for the field.

Having the chance to practice any skill in a simulated environment teaches field-specific skills in a way that truly sinks in. Students who have worked through business simulations enter the workforce with a firm understanding of what they are expected to do.

Additionally, academic studies show that after playing through simulation games, students improve their conceptual knowledge of their field, as well as their ability to work as a team.

To top it all off, business simulations have been in use for thousands of years — that is, if you count the original war game…chess.

A brief look at the past 100 years alone proves that business simulations have not only been around for ages, but also have tangible positive effects on the students who use them.

For example: try Googling “what percentage of people are visual learners?”

This is what you get:

65% of the population are visual learners. That’s 65% of your students at least who will benefit from hands-on learning activities like business simulations.

Plus, this means that simulations with rich visuals (as opposed to simulations that just display a series of numbers) create an impactful learning experience for all of the visual learners in your classroom.

It’s the difference between learning what a business is, and seeing one in action for yourself.

How long have business simulations been tested?

Business simulations have an extensive history which has long been left to the realm of academia and simulation-specific conventions. That’s a shame, because it can teach educators everywhere a great deal about the effects of learning through action.

Although it’s a bit dated, this study from the 2009 edition of Simulation Gaming provides an excellent in-depth look at the first 40 years of contemporary business simulation history. Here’s the run-down:

Discounting chess and other ancient war-strategy games, the first business simulation was invented in 1932 by Mary Birshtein.

As a high-ranking manager in the Bureau for the Scientific Organization of Work in Leningrad, Russia, Birshtein realized that strategic war games could be adapted to a business environment. Using those games as a model, she developed a simulation to simulate production and distribution processes at a typewriter factory.

By 1940, Birshtein and her team had developed 40 similar exercises. Across the sea, the USA-based RAND Corporation saw how effective Birshstein’s model was. In 1955, they created a U.S. Airforce logistics system called MONOPOLOGOS that taught participants how to best handle inventory management.

These original simulations were hand-scored, and although they had an undeniable impact on workplace productivity, their scope was limited. All student answers were handwritten and had to be reviewed one-by-one. It was easy for administrators to misread student handwriting (all teachers can relate), which led to errors in the final simulation.

All of this took time. To be able to adapt to a rapidly growing and changing economy, business simulations needed a way to score student answers accurately and quickly.

Then, mainframe computers entered the scene. Everything started to snowball.

In 1956, the American Management Association developed the first widely-known business game — TOP MANAGEMENT DECISION SIMULATION.

In 1957, Green and Andlinger developed BUSINESS MANAGEMENT GAME for the McKinsey & Company consulting firm.

1957 also saw the first-ever business simulation used in a university classroom — TOP MANAGEMENT DECISION GAME, developed for a business policy course at the University of Washington.

As soon as Mary Birshtein developed business simulations in 1932, business owners across the globe recognized their value.

Image Source: Pászto and Pánek

Mainframe computers got rid of messy student handwriting, and using a computer to read student answers meant that the simulation could be completed faster.

That said, it was still an awkward, clunky process, and it wasn’t accessible to many — that is, until the PC was invented in 1984. The Windows operating system showed up the very next year. Once again, everything changed. The growing popularity of PCs meant that more users could access these training simulations than ever before.

On a PC, it was much easier to install and administer games. Student answers were recorded on a disk, then uploaded to a server computer. This sped up the process of analyzing and responding to students’ choices.

Fortune Builder (1984) was one of the earliest simulations for PC (the graphics are truly a blast from the past).

Before the internet, though, PC-based simulations still suffered from the time and effort it took to first download data to local computers and then upload them to a separate server computer. Aside from simply taking hours, this manual process created security problems.

To succeed in the modern era, business simulations needed to be accessible from any point while securing user data and remaining easy to use. The Internet provided exactly that.

What are the advantages of browser-based business simulations?

Once the Internet became a household commodity, it opened up a whole new avenue of opportunities for business simulations. Participants in browser-based business simulations can work together with teammates from anywhere in the world.

Real-time browser-based simulations like Tycoon Systems’ IndustryMasters (2007) allowed players from anywhere to compete in real time for profits and market share.

Nowadays, nearly all business simulations are either browser-based or downloadable, which means they’re widely accessible to a diverse audience.

Online business simulations can be used for remote, hybrid, or in-class teaching, as students can easily access the interface from any device.

They work as a teaching tool by taking advantage of gamifying the learning process.

The scholarly definition of “ gamifying ” is “the use of game design elements in non-game contexts.” Normally, gamifying lessons means integrating rewards-based learning or adding competitive aspects to classroom exercises. Anything and everything can be gamified nowadays ( including the stock market ), which goes to show how effective of a learning method it is.

By going a step further and actually creating games that simulate business environments, students experience a new level of educational immersion that’s unique to business simulations.

How can I integrate business simulations into my classes?

There are multiple ways for educators to take advantage of business simulations. They can be used as in-class activities, homework assignments, or even capstone projects.

As business education expert Tim Rogmans has explained, business simulations are more than a quick fix to spice up your teaching methods…instead, they are in-depth, complex, dynamic settings that require focus and planning.

When deciding whether or not a business simulation is right for your class, consider the following:

• What are your learning objectives for this class?
• How much time are you able to devote to the simulation?
• Is it clear to the students how this exercise links to the course?

Despite the time it takes to set up a business simulation exercise, Rogmans notes that well-used business simulations can actually save time in the long run. By immersing students in a hands-on learning environment, business simulations cement real-life lessons in students’ minds and reduce the amount of time spent repeating questions.

Rogmans strongly recommends using business simulations in an online class environment. They mesh well with the self-directed nature of online learning, especially because business simulations are unique in their ability to equip students with real-world skills in a risk-free environment.

When compared with textbook learning, traditional workplace training, and even gamified teaching methods, business simulations stand out as a complex, instructive, and entertaining method of learning by doing.

From ancient days, people have used games to simulate strategic decisions. Now, technological advances allow business simulations to explore more complex situations, create more realistic scenarios, and reach even more people.

It’s a known problem that students are graduating high school and even college without the necessary skills to make it in the workforce. For educators looking to change this, business simulations are a tested way forward.

How do I get started?

Knowledge Matters offers a wide range of business simulations for high school and college, all for less than most textbooks.

Our Virtual Business (VB) High School simulations are browser-based, online business simulations that allow you to build an interactive curriculum for business, marketing, finance, and more.

For college students, our Case Simulations depart from traditional turn-based business simulations to provide a seamless game-like interface that reduces time spent learning the software and increases time spent learning the subject.

For more information, check out the links below:

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Our management simulations help students learn the fundamentals of business, develop critical thinking skills, and apply their knowledge in a dynamic industry.

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Our strategy simulations challenge students to implement their strategy by making a wide range of decisions in marketing, operations, management, and finances., the simulations reinforce strategic concepts such as swot analysis, market positioning, creating and implementing a business strategy, and the interrelation of decisions, helping students to better understand and apply these concepts., join our growing community trusted by schools of all types to bring real-world experience into their classroom with our business simulations.

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DISCOVER WHY INSTRUCTORS CHOOSE INTERPRETIVE BUSINESS SIMULATIONS!

NewShoes helps keep the class exciting and engaging, as I give them time in class to make their decisions. The simulation ties nicely to my course objectives, allowing the students to see how marketing strategy can help (or hurt) a firm!

Alex Milovic, Marquette University

Your company is wonderful. The support is unbelievable.

Deborah Colton-Hebert, Rochester Institute of Technology

Students love simulations and generally become rather competitive, which enhances everyone’s learning of the materials we cover in class. Additionally, these simulations provide a wonderful counterpoint to students’ exploration of nascent business ideas, which tends to be quite conceptual. Customer support is also very helpful and responsive.

Tina Klein, University of California - San Diego

The MarketShare simulation has allowed my students to experience marketing in a way that no other classroom activity can duplicate. Every semester a sizable portion of my class lists it as their favorite part of the course. And the support Interpretive provides both me and my students is top notch, which allows me to concentrate on teaching rather than tech support.

Laura Downey, Purdue University

I have seen the difference in my students work as a result of their experience with the simulations and it helps prepare them to manage and balance multiple variables in a real business. The support that Interpretive Simulations provides is excellent as well; and recommend them highly.

Clint Vogus, Arkansas State University

I have been using StratSimMarketing for years. The peer-to-peer competition is engaging and the decisions students need to make are relevant to help them understand not only marketing, but also the value of research, operations and finance. I also appreciate the flexibility in turning some options on or off, and the responsive support team.

Nathalie Dens, James Madison University

Not only is the simulation an excellent tool for undergraduates, I use Corporation's more "ambitious" scenario when I teach MBA students, both traditional end executives. Interpretive's support staff has never let me down, whether I'm teaching in the US or abroad and I am grateful for the partnership we've built over the years.

Timothy Palmer, Western Michigan University

Not only do the students learn the subjects, they retain the information better than just using reading materials alone. The weekly process of analyzing consumer and market data, making decisions based on that data, then analyzing the results of those decisions embeds the process in their minds.

George Grody, Duke University

Students overwhelmingly like this simulation. Their enthusiasm was so strong, that this year, I decided to increase the simulation period from six weeks to eight weeks. The support from Interpretive is outstanding. This simulation is one of the most useful tools I have available to me as an instructor.

Benson Honig - McMaster University

The fact that we have been using the game three times a year for decades now shows that we have not been able to find a better alternative. The strong points of the game are that it is very motivational and all in all it seems to reward the best performing teams. Furthermore, the support of the company is perfect: answers are always provided within a working day.

Herman Wassens, Stenden University

Students comment on strategic airline simulation as one of the best aspects of learning as this helps them in gaining hands-on experience in applying and evaluating strategic decisions. The support services from interpretive are phenomenal as each of our queries stands solved the very next day.

Byju Madhavan, Villa College

PharmaSim has become an essential element of my classroom teaching in the Marketing Strategy course as it creates such an engaging setting for the students that learning occurs naturally through their classroom experience.

Hooman Estelami, Fordham University

Students love the competition and the simulation allows them to engage with other students in a realistic scenario. A textbook looks at marketing topics individually, the simulation provides an opportunity for students to integrate the information from the chapters into a consistent strategy.

Steven Cox, Queens University of Charlotte

I find StratSim provides an excellent amount of realism and really pushes students to integrate what they know about various functional areas. Interpretive provides exceptional service and support for Instructors and Students alike.

Michele Yoder, York college of Pennsylvania

Interpretive will always be the first choice for my classes, in any country I am teaching . Of course, their simulations are excellent and super interesting and well elaborated, students love it and are really motivated, but other companies also have this. What Interpretive has that others don´t is the supporting Team that is simply PERFECT!

Ivana Pereira Goulart, Johannes Kepler University Linz

EXPERIENCE EXCEPTIONAL SUPPORT WITH OUR BUSINESS SIMULATIONS!

At interpretive, our commitment extends beyond providing realistic business simulations. we prioritize comprehensive support for our customers, ensuring a seamless teaching experience. our fully administered services enable you to focus on instruction while we manage the logistics of your simulation event., choose our business simulations and be paired with a dedicated customer relationship manager (crm) ready to assist in integrating our simulations into your class, and to answer any questions you may have. our experienced customer support specialists promptly respond to all technical simulation inquiries from students within 24 hours. with our committed support team, you can confidently implement our business simulations, enhancing your classroom learning environment..

How much does it cost?

Our prices range from $29.95 through $49.95 USD per user for academic use. Our simulations are affordable and effective!

Is it customizable?

Each of our business simulations comes with a variety of scenarios & simulation settings instructors can choose from.

How long does it take to set up a simulation?

The setup process is quick and easy  within the same business day!  Our support team will let you know the information we need from you about your course and will get everything set up on your site promptly.

How do I assess my students’ performance?

We provide several tools that help you assess students’ understanding of business concepts, including quizzes, assignments, and a weighted scorecard of simulation performance measures.

See our business simulations in action!

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Key Features of Our Business Simulations

Tour Videos

Guided tours of the simulation for faculty and students.

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All assignments are now easily assigned, accessed, and graded.

Student Journey

A full report of student activity within the simulation.

Decision Rationale

Students can justify their decision choices each period.

Teammates can communicate with each other directly.

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Prepare undergraduate, graduate and MBA students for the real world through immersive experiential learning.

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Offer a risk-free environment for professionals to acquire critical on-the-job skills they need to succeed in their careers.

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Become an experiental learning advocate in your local market by selling and promoting our business simulations.

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What our business simulation users have to say.

- Professor Lewis Lim, Nanyang Business School

-Professor Alan Malter, University of Illinois

"Markstrat was a great opportunity to work together, learn concepts & understand the business impact of decisions. I recommend including it in your learning programs."

-Severine Lobeau, Program Sponsor - Head of Marketing Excellence, Roquette

"Past students have been given work positions based on what they learned in Markstrat. IIt gives them a competitive edge because they can discuss marketing strategy more insightfully."

-Lynda Andrews, Former Lecturer - Queensland University of Technology

Topic-focused learning simulations both you and your participants will love

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Not sure which solution is right for you? Don’t worry, you can download our helpful guide!

Frequently asked questions, what are the main benefits of business simulations.

Risk-free learning: Business simulations provide a safe platform to test decisions without consequences.

Application of theory: Business simulations provide an engaging, realistic environment where learners can actively put into practice the concepts they have learned via lectures, textbooks and PowerPoints.

Instant feedback: Unlike in real life, business simulations allows learners to see the impact of complex business decisions almost immediately, speeding up the learning process.

Boost retention: Business simulations create memorable experiences because learners are engaged through fierce competition & real decision making.

What do you learn from Business Simulations?

Participants acquire both hard and soft skills when playing our simulations. Most notably critical decision-making skills, working under pressure, teamwork skills, and more!

What education level is necessary for participants?

Our simulations can be used for undergraduate students, graduate students (MBA and Executive Education) and working professionals.

Is there a minimum and/or maximum number of participants that can take part in the simulations?

We recommend a minimum of 15 participants to effectively partake in our simulations, with either 2-3 participants per team depending on the simulation.

On the other hand, there is no limit to how many participants can play in a simulation.

How can I purchase a simulation?

Our simulations are licensed-based, with one license per participant. We do not sell individual licenses, only licenses associated with programs.

You first need to be validated as an instructor on our website. Go to Register  to start the process.

Once you are a validated instructor, you will get an automated email with your login credentials. Log in and click the "Course/Quotations" link to complete your course information. 

Within 48 hours, your account manager will email you ordering instructions depending on if you or your participants will be purchasing the simulation licenses.

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Which business simulation is right for you?

Discipline focused , industry specific , or customized . No matter which business simulation you choose, you will get a modern educational tool built on sound economic theory. Cesim uses the latest technology to help you substantially improve the knowledge retention , business decision making and teamwork skills of your students or employees.

Cesim simulations used in higher education

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"Simulations are a great way to teach students to make decisions with ambiguity, because they've taken all kinds of courses over the years, they've been tested, sometimes with cases, sometimes using regular tests; but this allows them to use the full range and make decisions."

John Kraft Susan Cameron Chair of International Business Warrington College of Business, University of Florida / Visiting faculty, Aalto Mikkeli

"Up until now, students have had an education where we've been cutting all the different business functions into pieces, and for a lot of them this is the first time that they get a chance to see how everything fits together and see some of those interactions that are pretty difficult to capture in a Power Point slide."

Kevin McIntire Senior Lecturer, Metropolia University of Applied Sciences Visiting faculty, Aalto Mikkeli

"What we'd like students to take away is that they need to integrate information from many different sources when they're making decisions. Regular subject-based courses are narrower and they may focus on the textbook. But here they're trying to pull together rather uncertain information from different sources and somehow still make a decision as best as they can."

Joan Lofgren Director of the BScBA Programme Aalto Mikkeli

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"We needed a simulation that would be relatively easy to get to grips with but with very satisfying and "realistic" levels of complexity and challenge. Cesim Global Challenge fit the bill very well for our Executive MBA students."

Chris Coleridge Lecturer in Strategy London Business School

"One of the key advantages of using the Cesim business simulations is the way that they're set up. Even the teams that failed learned a lot, because as they try to introduce corrective strategies, they saw that other teams responded to them or anticipated them and it gave them a real sense of what business is like. It's not just making decisions in a vacuum."

Carl Voigt Academic Director for International Business Education and Research & Professor of Clinical Management and Organization Marshall School of Business University of Southern California

"The simulation has been a great addition to my strategy course. It is an extraordinary teaching tool to get the students engaged and enthusiastic about strategy, and the student feedback has been fantastic."

Raluca Bunduchi Lecturer in Management University of Aberdeen Business  School

"All the graduates came back with the comment I expected, which is that banking and actually running a bank is an incredibly complex business! It’s not quite as simple as ‘pull this lever and this happens."

Simon Wilson Risk Advisory Partner Parker Fitzgerald

"I wanted my management to experience the main internal and external profitability drivers and challenges from the holistic point of view. Cesim’s solution offered me the opportunity to implement a case and a storyline that captured relevant aspects in a dynamic, competitive, and fun environment."

Topi Paananen CEO Peikko Group

"I think that the bank simulation represents, reflects as closely as possible, 'the real banking life.' Because we ask the attendees to work, to think as the board of a bank. We have the same issue, the same questions as the real boards of a bank. That's reason why we think it's the most relevant way to learn."

Barbara Essono Program Director Organization Development & Transformation HRCO/IBF Société Générale

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What participants say about Cesim simulations

Mikola S. Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences

"I have rarely been so motivated by a school project. This is one of the few times in my life that I have been so inspired, so motivated on a professional school project. I am even sad that it is finished, I would have liked to enjoy another week! Even others in my class were fully invested in the project, everyone loved it."

Simon T. Maestris Sup

"The simulation gives a really good overview of the various products offered by a bank—the different departments such as marketing, finance, HR and so on. And because it’s all done in a fun way it's something you really remember. It gave us a really good foundation, and because it was fun we really engaged with it."

Katherine M. Parker Fitzgerald Consulting

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Software for Education

Simventure classic.

Bring Business Learning to Life: Software for Education

We understand that finding quality software for education can be challenging and that bringing business learning to life is important to you.

We also know that students learn best when they are interacting with their learning.

SimVenture Classic is based on a ‘learning-by-doing’ approach, keeping students engaged whilst learning key business skills. In terms of business simulation software for education, Classic has few rivals.

SimVenture Classic is used by schools, colleges, and Universities to bridge the gap the between the theory and practice of operating a small business.

Our award-winning business simulation has been designed with our clients to help you to develop your student’s business knowledge and competencies including:

Business simulation software for education

Our clients have used SimVenture Classic in several different contexts including:

How is it used?

SimVenture Classic can be used as a short taster session lasting 1-2 hours, a one-day event, to a complete course of study over several weeks or months.

Let’s collaborate on a customised plan together which will help you to understand the technology and implement it into your programme of learning.

Learners who use the business simulation for education tell us they appreciate…

Let us help you to transform your workplace talent with a trusted and proven product, a plan that works for you and technology with which your learners will be excited to engage.

“Over the past two weeks I have run the SimVenture Classic programme with a group of Level 2 Electrical apprentices and Level 3 ICT students. Both sessions were 6 hours. Engagement levels were very high and I found myself facilitating rather than teaching. This proved to be a very enjoyable experience for all. In one group a student who showed little interest at the start of the session went on to make a profit of over £250,000 and was hooked. The plenary session at the end revealed that students thought they had learnt a great deal about running a business within a very short time and liked the hands-on approach provided by SimVenture Classic.”

Lecturer,  Bishop Auckland College

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 Empowering executive education  through business simulations

Research shows that over 80% of knowledge is lost if not applied in real-life situations. Eureka Simulations bridges this gap by offering immersive, experiential simulations for business education that drive lasting impact.

Our interactive simulations ensure not only enhanced knowledge retention, but also deliver engaging and memorable experiences, outperforming traditional classroom sessions and business case studies. Embrace the Eureka Simulations advantage and empower the next generation of visionary leaders.

Empowering Leaders at World-Class Institutions

Eureka Simulations' Executive Education Business Simulations have enriched the learning experiences of over 10,000 students worldwide. Our cutting-edge, interactive solutions are trusted by prestigious academic institutions like IESE and CEIBS, as well as top-tier organizations. The players value the realism and transformative insights gained through our immersive simulations, driving impactful growth in their professional lives.

Explore Our Diverse Simulation Portfolio

Dive into Eureka Simulations' curated collection of high-impact serious games, tailored for business and executive education. Our simulations span a wide range of topics, including supply chain, operations, decision analysis, finance, sales, marketing, entrepreneurship, negotiation, and more. Unleash the full potential of experiential learning with our versatile portfolio!

Big Bank is an artificial intelligence simulation for business managers, and is perfect for graduate, post-graduate and executive education programs. Co-developed with IESE, designed by Javier Zamora, includes a personal assessment with his FATE framework.

Our version of the legendary simulation game from the 60s used in teaching environments to demonstrate a number of key principles of supply chain management. Co-developed with IESE Business School. Revamped to become a real time, interactive multiplayer experience, perfect for graduates and executive education programs.

Interactive simulation in which students get in charge of the Pearson Cosmetics company to manage purchasing, manufacturing, sales and finance. Co-developed with IESE Business School, designed by prof. Jaume Ribera, the simulation contains multiple basic operational concepts, such as lead time, reorder point and quantity, manufacturing capacity, and capital expenditure allocation, among others.

Interactive simulation in which students get in charge of procurement at Pearson Cosmetics company. Co-developed with IESE Business School, designed by prof. Jaume Ribera, the simulation contains multiple learning points, such as supplier selection, inventory management, supply chain risk management, and others.

Interactive simulation in which students get in charge of the factory at Pearson Cosmetics company. Co-developed with IESE Business School, designed by prof. Jaume Ribera, the simulation contains multiple learning points, such as manufacturing productivity, capital expenditure allocation, predictive asset maintenance, and others.

Interactive simulation in which students get in charge of the first store at Pearson Cosmetics company. Co-developed with IESE Business School, designed by prof. Jaume Ribera, the simulation contains multiple learning points, such as queue policy selection, people selection and management, retail dynamics, and others.

Relic Island Negotiation Simulation is a multiplayer experience in competitive and collaborative negotiation, where students face each other and take difficult decisions during multiple rounds in an increasingly tough environment.

Hire a chef is an interactive team decision making simulation exercise, where students discuss which Chef to hire for their restaurant. Co-developed with IESE Business School, designed by prof. Álvaro San Martín.

Simulation set on a Hospital during COVID, where the participants play the role of the business translator managing the artificial intelligence lifecycle in order to produce predictions to improve health outcomes. Co-developed with IESE Business School, designed by prof. Javier Zamora

Generative AI Workshop is a generative AI tool that allows you to experiment with the latest AI technology in generative text and images. It is a perfect tool for business executives to understand the potential of AI and how it can be applied to their business.

Halign is the ultimate stakeholder alignment simulation tailor-made for the dynamic and complex healthcare sector. It stands as an indispensable tool for healthcare practitioners, management students, and managers in institutions operating in the healthcare landscape.

Capstone simulation where the player takes the role of an entrepreneur in the early stage of a venture. Build a team, create a product and get validation from potential clients and investors. This simulation is perfect to verify the focus, sharpness of mind and quickness in product development and B2B sales funnel.

A competitive simulation, perfect to assess group dynamics in graduate and post-graduate courses, as well as determine decision-making processes of the players. Students need to make a number of decisions in marketing, product and R&D areas, in order to achieve a better performance than the competing players, gain market share and increase profits.

This competitive logistics simulation is perfect to assess group dynamics in graduate and post-graduate courses, as well as to determine decision-making processes of the players. Students need to make a number of decisions, such as which markets to open, warehouse sizing and goods shipments, in order to achieve a better performance than the competing players, gain market share and increase profits.

A sustainability simulation based on a real life problem of the fishermen located in the famous italian lake Como. In our competitive world some scenarios require unorthodox solutions, which the students will have to agree on in this case of the tragedy of the commons.

Innovative simulation with a simple interface to guarantee complete focus on the problem at hand, the newsvendor problem. Get your students to manage a doughnut truck with perishable goods and daily demand forecasting.

Custom Simulations for your institution

At Eureka Simulations we are experts in developing custom simulators for academic institutions. We believe that personalized learning is the key to success. For this reason, we develop simulations from scratch according to the specific requirements of each educational institution, so that your students can train their skills and strengthen their practical competencies, thus achieving learning objectives effectively. We offer a close support to the teacher to help you implement your new simulation or take advantage of the potential of our simulations. Our team of experts will help you design the best learning experience for your students.

Eureka Simulations Blog

Wednesday 3 April, 2024

The Power of Experiential Learning: Overcoming Theory in Education

The implementation of experiential learning through simulations in today's education offers numerous benefits for students, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings and develop relevant skills. According to data from the Association for Experiential Learning (AEE), 80% of students report a significant increase in their confidence in their skills, while 90% of employers consider experiential learning crucial in preparing students for the job market. These findings support the effectiveness of this educational approach.

Author: Diana Gutiérrez

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Introducing Inbox Simulations

CapsimInbox is an award-winning, simulation-based assessment platform that uses the familiarity and flexibility of email to reinforce learning and objectively evaluate critical business skills in a real-world environment.

Business Simulations

Immerse learners in a risk-free environment where they operate and grow a multi-million dollar company in a dynamic and competitive market by making strategic, cross-functional business decisions. 

Assessments

Evaluate critical business knowledge and skills in any learning environment with our suite of web-based assessment platforms.

Free Buyers' Guide

7 questions to ask before investing in simulations.

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What Our Customers are Saying

Our BGSU Accounting program is ranked #1 in the State of Ohio (Bloomberg). We believe the Capsim simulation we use in our managerial accounting courses has provided a very unique student learning experience . This represents an important contribution to that ranking.

James F. Zeigler, CPA

Professor of accounting & mis, bowling green state university.

CapsimInbox has quickly become an integral part of our educational process. The ability to immerse learners in real-world simulations provides direct parallels to the financial industry and helps develop the soft skills necessary to thrive in any career.

Co-Founder Rapunzl

I’ve spent 30 years in public accounting—so I understand how the day-to-day works.  And I thought CapsimInbox was really incredible and reflective of my experiences in the industry .

Director of Accounting Programs Monroe College

Our clients are increasingly frustrated by the “one-size-fits-all” mentality of professional development. CapsimInbox allows us to quickly create a tailored training solution that addresses their immediate training needs in a context that is both relevant and meaningful to their working environment and to their culture.

David Knock

Ceo & director edcentral.

The Capsim simulation really allowed me to close the gap between knowing and doing. The students love to apply the concepts in a real-world setting.

Frank T. Rothaermel, Ph.D.

Professor of strategy and innovation georgia institute of technology.

The Capsim simulation really allowed me to close the gap between trying new things can be overwhelming and sometimes just downright scary, but Capsim makes it easy and you will see your students excel in a whole new way.n knowing and doing. The students love to apply the concepts in a real-world setting.

Kelly Miller

Business entrepreneurship instructor wayne county schools, proven simulations that help students and teams excel.

Discover how immersive simulations are preparing the next generation of business leaders.

Reach HR Reduces Time-To-Hire by Over 50% With Capsim

Sr business solutions uses capsim to empower women aspiring to be entrepreneurs, rita cossa of mcmaster university uses capsim to boost engagement for 1,200+ online students, worldwide.

When presented with an opportunity to incorporate different teaching strategies and tools into the course, Professor Rita Cossa was adamantly against simulations. Now she can't envision teaching without them. So what changed?

Geoff Malleck of the University of Waterloo Increases the Popularity of a New Business Program Using Capsim

A proven way to develop tomorrow's business leaders.

A Validated and Proven Way to Develop Tomorrow’s Leaders

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Free Simulation Software for Education

Anylogic personal learning edition.

AnyLogic is the only general-purpose multimethod simulation modeling software.

AnyLogic Personal Learning Edition (PLE) is a free simulation tool for the purposes of education and self-education. Academics, students and industry specialists around the globe use this free simulation software to teach, learn, and explore the world of simulation. Download AnyLogic PLE simulation software for free and join them today!

• Free permanent license

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• Free educational textbook about AnyLogic simulation software

Why download AnyLogic PLE simulation software?

Multimethod Simulation Modeling

AnyLogic PLE is the only free simulation software that combines discrete event, system dynamics, and agent-based simulation methods so you can model any real-world system or process. This makes it the perfect simulation software for students. It helps to introduce them to the principles of simulation and all modern modeling approaches, as well as teaching them how to choose the right abstraction level.

Linking GIS and Simulation

An exceptional feature of AnyLogic PLE simulation software is its free integration with GIS technologies. The support of tile-based maps from free online providers allows users to obtain spatial data from maps, calculate routes on-the-fly, move agents on real roads, and create models of geographical systems in just a few clicks.

Multipurpose Free Simulation Software

AnyLogic PLE is a flexible modeling tool: it allows users to simulate problems in any kind of industry, including supply chain, logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, and many more. Thanks to its unique adaptability, AnyLogic alone can substitute for many other tools.

Support of 2D and 3D Animation

AnyLogic PLE allows users to easily develop visually rich, interactive models that can feature 2D and 3D animation. Images and 3D models for animation are included even in the free PLE version of AnyLogic simulation software, and you can upload your own ones as well. Animation will help you verify your models and better understand the processes inside.

Easy to Use Libraries

A visual development environment speeds up the model building process and is available in AnyLogic PLE simulation software for free. Prebuilt object libraries allow users to create models by dragging and dropping elements from palettes. AnyLogic’s special industry libraries include road traffic, pedestrian, rail, fluid, and material handling libraries. You can create your own reusable modules and construct custom libraries.

Export and Share Models

AnyLogic models are completely separable from the development environment. The free version of AnyLogic PLE simulation software allows models to be exported to AnyLogic Cloud, where they can be shared with the community. An ideal instrument for distributing your models online!

Free Simulation Textbook

In addition to the free simulation software, we supply learners with a free book! AnyLogic in Three Days, the practical tutorial book from the software developers, is designed for use in self-education and university environments. It is ideal for studying modeling and simulation along with the free AnyLogic PLE simulation software.

It contains learning examples of all three modeling methods: • Agent-based • Discrete event • System dynamics

The link to the book can be accessed from the AnyLogic software welcome screen.

What our users say

Andrey Semenov

In my opinion, AnyLogic is one of the most powerful simulation tools on the market, that can be applied for modeling across a wide range of industries, such as supply chains, warehouses, or ports.

The biggest advantages of AnyLogic are the availability of different simulation methods in one platform and the ability to create multimethod simulations.

AnyLogic was the clear choice after comprehensive evaluation of multiple systems and further prototyping in those that were shortlisted. Furthermore, it continues to impress the deeper we get. There's no doubt the right simulation and modelling tool was selected for the majority of our current and future needs.

Dietmar Neubacher

I use multimethod modeling and simulation, and AnyLogic is the most powerful tool in business modeling and simulation. I educate at least 20-30 students every term in AnyLogic. I can point out good tutorials and example models, and connectivity of different techniques as main advantages of the product.

Dr. Mark Paich

I go back with AnyLogic to the very beginning: over ten years now. Ten years ago, AnyLogic was what I call the only industrial strength product that had a hope of doing both system dynamics, agent based, and discrete event in one package. As best as I can tell, it’s still the only package that has that capability.

Free Simulation Software Downloads

AnyLogic PLE simulation software can be used for free by anyone solely for the purposes of education and self-education. For any kind of commercial or research activities, users must obtain another type of license. For more information, check the full software license agreement .

The free AnyLogic PLE simulation software features all the basic functionalities of AnyLogic, including support of all three modeling methods, all standard libraries, integration with GIS maps, 3D animation, and more.

Models built using our free simulation tool AnyLogic PLE are limited in complexity and size , but provide enough capabilities to learn simulation.

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PLE Model Size and Complexity Restrictions

Number of Agent Types in One Model

limited to 10

Number of Embedded Agents/Blocks in One Agent

limited to 200

Number of System Dynamics Variables in One Agent

Number of Dynamically Created Agents

limited to 50

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Business simulations for education

Business simulations for education.

The flexible and easily customizable Simformer Business Simulations (SBS) platform is the foundation of all Simformer solutions for business and academia sectors. In the process of development of SBS, we relied on the experience of experts from different business sectors and meticulously collected knowledge relating to the functionality of Simformer Business Simulation while recreating the smallest nuances of technological and business processes.

1 000 000 registered users 50 000 active players

20+ industries 200+ products and services

All key business processes

Today, the powerful multi-user platform Simformer Business Simulation allows you to realize the most daring ideas from interactive school and university classes to corporate tournaments and events in Training and Skills Development.

With its flexible configuration, SBS is able to provide the basis for long-term courses or short-term training programs. High school teachers, university professors, and specialists in the development and training programs will be able to solve their tasks in SBS.

Simformer Business Simulation combined with a popular Learning Management System forms a unique e-learning solution. Our LMS offers the ability to create interactive tasks, check the performed tasks, rate them, as well as communicate in forums and other resources.

Tens of thousands of participants around the world create a unique ecosystem in SBS, a virtual economy, a natural competition, rich business life, and the need to make decisions in challenging situations. The unpredictability of the real participants determines the probabilistic nature of future outcomes and introduces a risk factor, which adds a unique emotional element to any task solved with the help of SBS.

The unified simulation space Simformer Business Simulation speaks 3 languages: English, Spanish, and Russian which allows, in addition to managerial skill acquisition, to improve the motivation for and efficiency of learning foreign languages.

Simformer is an unparalleled project. We did not just create the world’s most powerful multi-user business simulation platform; we created an innovative e-learning solution that fundamentally changes the approach to business education.

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Never Taught with a Simulation? Start Here.

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Cameron Conaway is an adjunct professor in the Professional Communication master’s program at the University of San Francisco and a team leader in the People, Policy & Purpose organization at Cisco. Conaway holds an Executive MBA from the University of San Francisco and an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Arizona. A former journalist, he is a recipient of The Daniel Pearl Investigative Journalism Initiative Fellowship and a grantee of the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting. See Conaway’s latest article at HBR.org , “ The Right Way to Process Feedback. ”

A Simple Approach to Using Simulations in Any Classroom

• Course Materials

Lilian Ajayi-Ore is a faculty member at Columbia University and New York University School of Professional Studies. She teaches digital marketing, interactive marketing, and data analytics. She is also a digital marketing strategist and big data analytics executive with over 16 years of industry expertise helping brands and organizations identify key market trends and implement marketing strategies.

Zombies and Superheroes in the Classroom—Creating Lessons That Stick

• Experiential Learning
• Student Engagement

Christopher Robichaud is senior lecturer in ethics and public policy at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and director of Pedagogical Innovation at the Edmond J. Safra Center for Ethics. He has devoted considerable energy to creating simulations that give professionals opportunities to explore ethical decision making in the context of practicing leadership skills and engaging in negotiations.

6 Favorite Business Simulations to Teach—and Why

Bindu Agrawal is professor of entrepreneurship at Sri Sri University in India. She has been contributing to building a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem as both a Mentor for Change and an Innovation Ambassador, which are initiatives of the Government of India for promoting entrepreneurship. Passion for entrepreneurship and social causes keeps her motivated to adopt innovative pedagogies for teaching, mentoring, and training programs. She has mentored over 50 startups and students of incubation centers at higher education institutions. She has been using business simulations to teach students and train entrepreneurs for the last eight years.

Imen Ameur is professor of practice innovation and management at Hult International Business School. She is a global business leader, entrepreneur, and digital transformation expert with extensive international experience. Ameur is committed to entrepreneurship and experiential learning. She teaches at the innovative EY Accelerator focusing on digital business trends and leading with purpose. Ameur is also leading the development of the HULT incubator in Boston.

Karin Kollenz-Quetard is professor of strategy and innovation at EDHEC Business School, and she also intervenes in customized programs at other business schools such as London Business School (UK) and HEC (France). She develops and delivers face-to-face and online executive-management development programs and keynotes with a focus on strategy and innovation. In December 2016, Karin was named one of the world’s leading business school professors by Financial Times .

Stuart Levy is an associate teaching professor of management at the George Washington University School of Business. His teaching, consulting, and research expertise involves experiential learning and skill building in leadership, management, and entrepreneurship. He serves on the GWSB Teaching Excellence Task Force and is a faculty advisor for Harvard Business Publishing, specializing in simulations and Harvard ManageMentor modules.

Anna A. Tavis is a professor and academic director of the Human Capital Management Department at NYU School of Professional Studies, senior fellow with the Conference Board, and the academic in residence with Executive Networks. She was named for inclusion in Thinkers50 Radar for 2020.

Why Confused Students Learn Better

Delphine Genin holds multiple professional roles, including lecturer, columnist, and learning strategy consultant. Genin has a master’s degree in management from ESCP Europe and has studied neuroscience for business at MIT Sloan. She joined The Swiss Education Group in 2018 to deliver meaningful learning experiences in business planning, marketing, and ethics courses. As a learning strategy consultant, Genin has a deep understanding of both neuroscience and entrepreneurship. Genin is also an opinion columnist covering education, neuroscience, and management for various international publications.

What’s Different When You Teach with Simulations Online?

• Digital Learning

Špela Trefalt is Diana K. Trust Associate Professor in leadership development at Simmons University’s School of Business in Boston. She teaches leadership, organizational change, human resources management, networking, negotiations, and similar topics. In her research, she studies how professionals achieve a sense of balance between their work and personal lives. She is also an executive coach and author of the Organizational Behavior Simulation: Leveraging Networks .

Yes, Business Simulations Can—and Should—Be Taught Online

Tim Rogmans is Managing Director at Sim Institute. He is the author of Sustainability Managment Simulation: Net Zero , Business Essentials Simulation: Coffee Shop Inc. , and Macroeconomics Simulation: Econland .

When—and When Not—to Choose a Business Simulation for Your Course

When students make the tough decisions, brief, play, debrief.

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