Links Simulation Stimulation

Links simulation is the simulation which connects all the tit bits of what goes into the business. It exacts judicious and fast decisions on various aspects from forecasting, capacity planning, distribution channel selection, mode of transport to information technology and host of others. It is exciting just like a game because of its fast nature. It can be best played when there are several teams competing, trying to outgrow eachother in tough competition. 7-10 teams of 3-5 members each can provide a healthy mix and perfect environment to learn the dynamics of business.One week and couple of decisions everyday suffice to learn the impact of various factors on the outcome of the business. One has to have a holistic approach to emerge as a winner of simulation in the end. Number of constraints set in the game makes it very exciting and exacting at the same time. Phelothra of information on various issues such as relationships with suppliers, discount on selecting one transporter, daily research reports on how everybody is fairing serve as a near to real experience. Three matrices covering important ratios have been deviced to apprise teams of their performances in the game. Operating, financial and customer ratios are those three broad matrices. On top of the fast decision making , it demands clear understanding of the various concepts of supply chain and logistics. A clear strategy and the need of being tenacious to the strategy is something which has bore fruits more often than not which can range from high return on revenues, high inventory turnover ratios to customer satisfaction. The best aspect of the simulation is the comprehensive reports one gets at the end of the day. Teams learning fast from their mistakes by analysing the reports make amends whereas complacency tend to ruin the teams who don't refer to the end of day reports. As a supply chain and logistics person, I have always been interested to know how various decisions in operations influence the annual financial reports and this simulation has been an effective learning stepping stone. Those who are willing to learn more about links can refer to http://www.links-simulations.com/ . Happy playing and happy learning