When to Use "Evolved" and "Custom" Simulations
When considering the use of business games or simulations for the training of employees, HR professionals often want to know which is better — an "evolved" (previously designed and developed) simulation or one that is "custom" (built from scratch).
The short answer is "that depends!"
Fully customized educational games and simulations can be very powerful. They directly address an organization's key educational issues and quickly engage learners because of the direct link to their companies, departments and jobs.
At the same time, they generally require significant resources — time, people and money — to design, develop and test.
You'll be most successful with a customized simulation…
• When your content is so company-specific that there is nothing close in the marketplace to meet your needs — even if adapted or tailored.
• When you are willing to devote the necessary time and other resources to design, develop and test. Custom simulations, depending on the complexity of the content and audience, may take several months to complete.
• When the "scope" or urgency of the issue (example: a major corporate change initiative) is great enough to warrant the higher cost and resource allocation.
Here are some reasons you may want to consider an "evolved" simulation:
Designed and tested over time
These programs are sometimes referred to as "off-the-shelf." An evolved business simulation has previously gone through the rigors of learning design, pilot testing and use within corporate learning environments.
Speed of implementation
Evolved business simulations are usually easy to implement and can be rolled out very quickly.
Faster customization
In many cases, an evolved business simulation can be "tailored" or "customized" for specific client applications. This ensures that connections to the learners' own company and on-the-job issues are strong, while maintaining the benefits of an already existing program.
Cost-effectiveness
Since evolved business simulations have already been designed and tested and are ready for implementation, they are generally less expensive, even when they are tailored or customized.
"Safe" environment for learners
Sometimes it is valuable to remove learners from their day-to-day business reality. Evolved simulations can plunge participants into less familiar business situations that help them focus on learning content, acquiring knowledge and developing skills. Once grounded in this content, learners can then be guided to apply their new knowledge and skills to on-the-job issues and situations.
Paradigm Learning works with clients to develop Discovery Maps — fully customized classroom-based educational programs to introduce or reinforce corporate vision, strategies or major change initiatives.
We also offer "evolved" games and simulations (see Products and Services) which can be tailored for specific client needs.
Let us help you determine whether a "custom" or an "evolved" simulation is right for you.
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