Reflection on my experience with the Edumundo Simulation Game

The module of MIST was divided into different tasks, including both individual as well as group tasks. So, in line with this, we were assigned a group task, where we were assigned to group of 4-6 people to work on a digital transformation project. It was MIST Phone Ventures, that was supported by Edumundo- a business simulation game platform.

In my current blog post, I will reflect my experiences with this business simulation game, using Gibb’s Reflective Cycle developed in 1988.

Description

For six weeks, we managed a simulated smartphone business named ORBITEK, where we made strategic decisions across the markets of UK, UAE, BELGIUM, focused on product development, management, HR management, marketing and other key areas with the aim of improving our performance each year (equivalent to one week).

As HR Governance & Strategy Manager, I was responsible for looking into HR department along with monitoring targets and resolving issues related to day-to-day operations, administration, management etc.

Each week, during the seminars, our team used to have thorough analysis of the outcomes of previous round, and further discuss and decide on adjustments for the upcoming week. After spending weeks on 3rd or 4th rank, we were finally able to put ourself at 2nd rank during the final week. Although, we didn’t reach the top rank, but the overall experience with this game was very useful and offered a lot of learning areas.

Feelings

Initially, the game was bit challenging, as we were overwhelmed by the number of decisions to take and the consideration of relevant factors towards any decision. It was challenging as none of the team members had practical business experience. But over the time, we learnt about the process interpretation, results analysis to understand the risks and areas of improvements. Once, we got this insight, everything became easy and eventually we were able to get the logic behind every decision and its outcomes.

Evaluation

One of the best things of this Edumundo Simulation was the learning, that I had with every passing week. As every week we get the results of our decisions, that enabled us to improve our strategies in the upcoming week. Additionally, all team members were making their best efforts to make the plan work properly. However, despite our motivation and good team management, a key challenge was not all team members fully contributed to the game. This was a difficult situation, but I tried managing my motivation and contributed fully towards the game. In addition to this, we made timely decisions. Initially, we chose to invest more in local partnerships, market analysis rather than focusing on product development or further market expansion. After reviewing our position thoroughly, towards the ending week, we expanded our operations and entered into the UAE’s. We entered the new market to improve our sales, invested in our employee trainings and development, aiming to gain our project targets for sustained profit and employee motivation.   

Conclusion

The experience with Edumundo game gave me a lot of worthy insights towards how businesses operate, how various factors are linked with each other and their impact towards its overall performance. This simulation served as a practical tool that offered me a real-time experience along with developing the critical analytical and decision-making skills, which are not only valuable for my academic progress but for my future professional growth as well.

Action Plan

By actively working on the business simulation game, I have gained valuable insights about how businesses work especially in the era where digital transformation is the New Normal. These insights will be valuable for me as I progress further in my studies and prepare myself for the real-world challenges. Therefore, in my future projects, I will explore the relevant resources, case studies, digital tools etc., in more detail to further improve my learning and understanding on digital transformation.

References

Gibbs, G. (1988). Learning by doing: A guide to teaching and learning methods. Further        Education Unit.