Description

This is a web-based supply chain management (SCM) system designed and developed to support an SCM role-play simulation game. Students form groups acting as retailers, distributors, manufacturers and suppliers, to simulate a supply chain. As part of the assessment, they are required to report the supply chain performance and their sales.

The courseware developed includes web-based teaching materials on using business-to-business (B2B) supply chains to suit the needs of students and their tutors/teachers.
 

Intended educational value

This system gives students their first experience of a business-to-business (B2B) supply chain model through action learning in a role-play game. Participation in the project will help to develop knowledge and skills in a wide range of areas, e.g., understanding supply chain relationships, problem-solving, critical thinking, negotiation, communication with customers and suppliers, the ability to engage in teamwork and appreciation of the bullwhip effect. 

Example of application

It has been used as a course project for students and it is planned to continue to use it as student coursework. It was used first in the subject "Ecommerce for Management" (MM4411).
 

Evaluation/Comments

From evaluation through a questionnaire, it was found that students felt system and simulation exercise helped them to gain some "hands-on" experience in:

• handling/processing purchase orders to suppliers;
• handling/processing sales order sof clients;
• making re-order forecasting for stocks;
• stock-level management; and
• using a computerized order processing system.

Through this B2B supply chain management exercise, they are able to:

• appreciate various issues concerning a supply chain, such as the forecasting model and factors affecting the e-supply chain operation;
• gain more insight into the B2B supply chain; and
• discuss supply chain issues effectively with their chain members.

Overall, the B2B supply chain simulation game:

• is more interesting, exciting and innovative than traditional textbook learning; and 
• helps students to have a fuller understanding of supply chain management and e-supply chain operations.