How to Create Your Own Business Game with IMAGINIT

Abstract

"THE IMAGINIT MANAGEMENT GAME [1] was originally created to replace another business game then in use. This change suggested other changes would be desired in the future. IMAGINIT was designed to accommodate game changes without writing a new computer program or publishing a new book. To do this, all parameters and controls for IMAGINIT are included with the data fed to the computer. The IMAGINIT computer program, which is written in FORTRAN, contains no game parameters or controls. There is a capacity limit of five firms per industry, but even this was changed by one user. THE IMAGINIT MANAGEMENT GAME is a computerized business simulation offering experiential learning about many different industries. It serves several purposes: introduction to business, acquaintance with computer usage, integration of the business curriculum, training in decision making, and behavioral research. Teams manage ongoing firms that compete in the industry being simulated. The industry has two product markets and one labor market. Firms usually begin making and selling a Product A-l in Market A and may bring out a Product A-2, which competes with all products A-1 in Market A, and a Product B-1 in Market B. Periods simulated may be years, quarters, or months. Period size may be switched during play. Optional features include display, presentation, or report assignments that are graded by the game administrator. These grades enter the computer model as data and affect the quantitative consequences for players. This combines nuances of qualitative player behavior with numerical decisions."