If you have ever played supply games, you know there are quite a few different types. However, supply chain games provide some with more choices than others. In some instances, the objective is simply to get supplies from A to B. In other cases, the objective is to complete a chain of operations. In the latter instances, the gamer is accountable for the entirety of the supply chain. In either instance, supply chain games are a great online diversion and can help improve game-playing skills, develop problem-solving skills, and hone analytical and critical thinking abilities.
Supply chain management games can be found on several popular gaming websites, including Facebook, Yahoo! Mahjong, and MySpace. In these games, players take on the role of a corporation or organization looking to get raw materials such as iron ore to be used in production. Players must first secure the resources they need then transport them to their intended location. Once there, the production is started and progress is measured by how many raw materials are used and how long it takes to produce something.
This type of game can prove entertaining because it gives the feeling of working in a large organization. Often, supply chain missions will force players to make crucial decisions based upon the needs of the supply chain. For example, the ore must be transportable from the mines to smelters and depots. Likewise, certain products must be shipped in bulk while others must be delivered in small batches. In all cases, a high score is made based upon the player's ability to determine the best route for getting all needed resources to their intended destinations on time and at the lowest possible cost.
Another version of this game involves shipping routes. Again, the goal is to secure raw materials to the points in the supply chain. However, unlike supply points, shipping points require more sophisticated logistical processes and more expensive shipping costs. The game ends when a company ships all its raw materials to its target customers. This requires players to carefully calculate shipping costs as well as the amount of profits that they can expect to make. Successful completion of this mission requires players to focus on supply chain management and strategic planning.
Supply chain games also allow players to examine the relationship between supply and demand. Supply is needed to fulfill a demand and when that demand increases, the supply in the supply chain should increase as well. Sometimes, supply will match demand, which will create an excess in supply and companies will be forced to find ways to either buy additional supplies or make cuts in the current level of production.
Many supply chain games will require players to develop relationships with one another and/or the companies they are competing with. Players build up relationships over time and some even develop loyalty among each other. When a player begins to get too far ahead of his or her competitors, the supply chain starts to break down. There will be cutbacks, overtime, and eventually the entire process will have to be re-opened. If it is not relaunched, the player will start to lose customers as new competitors move in and take over the market.
In supply-chain games, the player will also have to keep track of raw materials, seasonal changes in demand for specific products and how those products are contracted out. The player has to keep track of contracts from one month to the next as the supply chain continues to change. Supply chain management is a balancing act and cannot be neglected during play. When a company is in a constant state of flux, it is difficult for the company's supply chain to remain efficient and profitable.
Supply games can help a person develop skills that are beneficial in real life. The games can teach players how to properly negotiate with suppliers and vendors, negotiate terms of business contracts, create marketing strategies, and keep track of numerous transactions. All of these are important skills that a person needs to manage a supply chain. Learning how to successfully manage a supply chain will not only improve a player's chances of winning, but it can help prevent losses that may occur in real-world situations.