Case Simulations are flexible. They can supplement lectures, textbooks, assignments, and class discussions according to the needs of the instructor and the learning styles of the students. Watch this video to learn more.

Below is a suggested way Case Simulations could be taught:

  1. Students read the case study and review the discussion questions
  2. Instructor leads a case study class discussion
  3. Instructor presents the market simulation to the whole class
  4. Instructor leads data analysis to answer introductory questions
  5. Students form small groups and develop hypothesis (optional)
  6. Students themselves run the simulation and the data analysis
  7. Students propose and attempt simple extensions to the model
  8. Students identify new phenomenon and build models from scratch
  9. Instructor leads class review and provides feedback

Case Simulations

Burger Wars 2002

Everybody blamed McDonald’s for starting the price war. In 2002 a price war broke out between McDonald’s, Burger King, and other USA fast-food hamburger restaurants. This Case Simulation explores those market dynamics. With discussion questions and simulation exercises, students can analyze what really happened.

Springsteen on Broadway

Springsteen on Broadway ran from October 2017 to December 2018 in an intimate, 960-seat, theater on Broadway. This Case Simulation provides both a case study of the concert and a software simulated model of the market for tickets. Students are asked to analyze the market and optimize prices in the model.

Courtyard by Marriott

Small Marriott hotels seemed to be the answer. In the early 1980’s Marriott Corporation used a statistical survey to design a new chain of hotels. The result was the Courtyard by Marriott. This Case Simulation provides a case study of Marriott’s research, and a software simulated model of the hotel market. Students use the model to design Marriott’s new chain of hotels.

Foodie’s

Economies of scale are in short supply at Foodie’s, yet it successfully competes against much larger, nearby rivals. Stocking limited shelf space with a smart product assortment is essential. This Case Simulation provides a case study of grocery stores, and a simulated model of Foodie’s market dynamics. Students are asked to optimize the product assortments presented in the model.