Using Goldratt's game to introduce simulation in the introductory operations management course

Simulation is a key tool in operations research (OR); however, it is often difficult to introduce and motivate simulation within the introductory operations management (OM) course. Time, software, and student constraints often require simulation to be relegated to an appendix/special topic exercise left for the diligent student or to eliminate its coverage entirely. This paper describes the use of “Goldratt's Game” to provide an Excel-based introduction to the topic of simulation within the normal flow of the introductory OM course. While this coverage is far from complete, it provides students with sufficient preparation – in terms of understanding the motivation for and applicability of simulation – for more advanced, elective OM courses that employ simulation.