Berdymyrat Ovezmyradov - 2017-08-25

INSTRUCTIONS
Distinct feature of the game is utilization of spreadsheets which allows to achieve:
ü easy setup of multiplayer games and intuitive interface as compared to traditional beer game versions;
ü possibilities of playing both via internet and LAN;
ü incorporation of financial parameters for learning inventory control from accounting perspective;
ü option to simulate a competition between two supply chains;
ü minimum requirements towards staff, software, equipment and additional materials.
Technical requirements:
l Internet or LAN connection.
l MS Excel 2007 (or alternative open sourse software) and higher.
l At least 4 (single supply chain) or 8 (two supply chains) computers or tablets for each player and separately one computer for teacher in the classroom. In case number of players exceed the available computers, assign two or more players to some computers.
l Projector (desirable) for showing final results.

  • (optional) "My WiFi Router" or other software for easy setup of local network with laptop computers or tablets.

Step-by-step guide on conducting the game:
1) Set up LAN or internet connection to all computers. Upload and open the spreadsheet to open access in local area network (or Google Spreadsheets in internet). Set the main initial parameters (initial inventory, price and costs) at sheets “1” and “2”. For record keeping and easier reset, it is better to keep initial starting version of spreadsheet and make a separate copy of the file for each game.
2) Restrict access to sheets “1” and “2” to all players (this is enabled in settings of both Excel and Google Spreadsheets).
3) Set up access of each player to corresponding sheet according to his or her role as R1, W1, D1, F1, R2, W2, D2, F2.
4) Open access to the spreadsheet (or share and show the link in internet) for 4 computers of players in single supply chain game and for 8 computers in two supply chain game, instructor should have one computer for control of entire game and showing results to players.
5) Explain rules to the classroom as follows.
Each player should follow the following steps in each game period: 1) Wait for the Current Order from upstream player to be announced. 2) Press "Save" 3) Enter Your Order (below under the current entry period). 4) Press "Save" and announce that you entered your order so that downstream players can check it.
Warn players to never change previously entered orders and avoid negative or unrealistic numbers in order not to disrupt the game.
Ask to closely pay attention to the most important parameters like service level (SL),inventory costs, profit margin, current inventory and shortage
6) Conduct the game, monitor observance of rules, especially that players do not modify already changed cell values.
7) Upon finishing the last period, discuss results with the class (desirably through graphs and using projector), particularly bullwhip effect and possible use of inventory models to improve performance. If this is 8 players game, emphasize market share competition. Consider some reward for winning players or teams.
8) Analyze results after completion of class and consider replaying the game in subsequent classes after students learn another inventory control technique (EOQ, linear programming, newsvendor, base-stock etc) to see how their performance may improve.