Peer Review

LINKS Supply Chain Management Simulation

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Overview:: The LINKS Supply Chain Management Simulation is one of many LINKS Simulations available. It is designed to be used in a competitive, team-based environment. The subject matter focuses on all major supply chain elements.
Type of Material:: A computer simulation.
Recommended Uses:: This simulation is most appropriate for upper-level business-to-business marketing, supply chain management/logistics, or operations management classes.
Technical Requirements:: Internet access and a user password are required to use the database. The simulation is fee-based.
Identify Major Learning Goals:: The goal of the simulation is to provide students with experience, albeit simulated, in managing the elements of the supply chain, including product development, procurement, manufacturing, distribution and warehousing, transportation, customer service, and forecasting. Students utilize information technology, research studies, financial statements, operating reports, among other things, when making decisions.
Target Student Population:: Undergraduate, graduate, and professional business students.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:: Students should have a basic understanding of supply chain management, and the ability to read financial statements and operating reports.

Rating:
Strengths:: The simulation is well-developed, with all key supply chain management concepts addressed in detail. Tutorials are provided on the site, as are links to other SCM simulations and SCM readings that can enhance the students' learning experiences.
Concerns:: The complexity of the simulation may be intimidating to some students. It has also been my experience with computer simulations (although I have never used) feel that the outcomes of computer simulations are somehow arbitrary, that is, no matter what they do, they cannot win.

Rating:
Strengths:: Students gain practical experience in detailed decision making about supply chain management.
Concerns:: As with all simulations, I worry about students getting too caught up in the end results.

Rating:
Strengths:: From a practical standpoint, the simulation is easily accessed via the Internet. Links to technical support are provided on the site, as are forms for organizing data for input. The online
nature of the simulation will prevent potential problems such as students and faculty having to exchange diskettes or email attachments containing decisions and simulation outcomes.
Concerns:: The level of analysis is quite detailed and could be overwhelming for underprepared undergraduate students (e.g., students lacking the ability to use financial statements and operating reports in decision making). Faculty will need to work closely with students to ensure the experience is beneficial.

Other Issues and Comments:: In addition to the previously mentioned materials, the site includes several links (no pun intended) to other fun sites, including a writing style quiz and business buzzwords.
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