Gamification in Supply Chain Management (SCM) education: a practical experience with the Beer Game

Abstract

Effective supply chain management is crucial for organizational success, requiring a practical and profound understanding of essential concepts to optimize operations, gain a competitive advantage, ensure customer satisfaction, mitigate risks, and enable the adoption of innovations that enhance performance. The innovative teaching and learning approach known as gamification, exemplified by the Beer Game, prepares students to face real challenges by simulating a beer supply chain, highlighting its complexity and the "Bullwhip Effect" concept. The practical experience helps students identify the consequences of their decisions, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, coordination, and strategic decision-making. This study aimed to provide 38 students in Technology in Logistics and Bachelor of Administration courses with practical experience in managing a supply chain with variable demand through the Beer Game. The intervention combined theory and practice, using the Beer Game as a simulation tool. Results revealed imbalances in orders and difficulties in decision-making, especially concerning unfulfilled orders. Previously reviewed research has confirmed the effectiveness of the Beer Game as a teaching tool for supply chain management. The evaluation by participating students showed that the game had a significant impact on the development of logical reasoning and the assimilation of concepts, although 25-30% of students faced difficulties in understanding certain game concepts. It is suggested that future Beer Game sessions should include strategies to mitigate the "Bullwhip Effect" and deepen the analysis of decision-making behavior in the supply chain, preparing university students for future challenges in their careers.