Business games off the shelf

Abstract

Computer-based modelling and simulation techniques are now enjoying widespread application. Computer programs for corporate financial planning and invest ment appraisal could provide the breakthrough in gaining acceptance for computers in the business world as machines capable of more than routine clerical work. The computer time-sharing services are in the forefront in providing these programs to the user.

At present the models are being used to answer clear- cut "What if...?" questions (gut-feeling and experi ence are still needed in marginal cases). As yet, models capable of generating "optimum" solutions are still only in the research stage. Most commercial packages, however, do include sophisticated fore casting techniques, allowing the user to answer problems such as "What level of sales and monthly growth rate would be needed to double sales in three years?"

All told, the arrival of routine models for business simulation is becoming the first tentative step in delegating social decision-making to machines--per haps the real beginnings of providing computer power for the public generally.