A simulation illustrates a fundamental concept in Operations Management and can be used to reinforce key learning objectives in case studies and readings. Based on the classic Manzana Insurance case, this simulation reinforces student understanding of Little's Law. Students analyze a service process-writing and renewing insurance policies-to understand the impact of capacity utilization on throughput time and WIP under demand variability. This simulation can be used for courses in Operations Management for both MBA and undergraduate students. It is delivered entirely online and requires one class meeting or less for students to run the simulation and discuss the results.
Company: Harvard Business Publishing
Approximate price: $10.00
Playtime: 30 minutes
Learning objectives: 1) Demonstrate the impact of capacity utilization on throughput time and WIP under demand variability 2) Reinforce understanding of Little's Law (impact of WIP on throughput time)
Link to simulation home page: https://hbsp.harvard.edu/product/4391-HTM-ENG