So how do I beat my competitors?
Is there a winning strategy in MikesBikes?
Are there any MikesBikes cheats?
The answer to all these questions is NO. Every iteration of our simulations is unique. This is done through a sophisticated model, a dynamic simulation scenario, and the use of real student competitors (compared to computer robots). We also aim to regularly update the simulation scenario and even offer custom scenarios for instructors who wish to significantly mix-up their scenarios between semesters or years.
Nevertheless, the Smartsims Support Team are happy to answer any other questions you may have and offer business coaching for companies with poor performance.
Why not?
I know it’s cliché but the most important outcome for you as students is to learn! When you invest the time into MikesBikes you will gain life-long learning outcomes. We hear all the time from past students that learning these core business concepts was key to their success in job interviews and their subsequent career.
A lot of our competitor’s business simulators tend to be over simplistic and rely on computer controlled (robot) opponents. As a result, the same decisions entered in one iteration of the simulation can be used across the class or across semesters to yield the same results. This means cheat sheets are often developed to be shared around the class or across the internet.
Here at Smartsims we strive to ensure every iteration of our simulations is unique. This is done through a sophisticated model, a dynamic simulation scenario, and the use of real student competitors (rather than computer robots). So although the business concepts and decision-making principles taught and applied are the same for every student, the strategy and decisions adopted by each team must be specific to their scenario and their competitor’s strategy and decisions. As a result, every iteration of the simulation is unique. The upside of this is it also makes teaching a business course with a simulator a new and exciting experience each semester.