Organization Theory

Organization Theory

•Virtual University www.virtual-u.org

–Simulates running a university with the attitudes and behaviors of an academic community

–Players strive for continuous improvement of the university or fulfillment of a unique game scenario such as raising minority enrollment.

–Integrates several learning objectives

–Free for academic use

Classification of Virtual University

Criteria	Cost	Administer	Operate	Objective	Debrief	Assess
Level 1 Value 1	High	High Complexity	High Learning Curve	Relates to One	None	None
Level 2 Value 2	Med	Medium Complexity	Moderate Learning Curve	Relates to Several	Indirectly Reinforces	Low Level
Level 3 Value 3	Low	Some complexity after set up	Low Learning Curve	Achieves One or More	Reinforces Some	Provides Team
Level 4 Value 4	Free	No facilitation after set-up	Immediate Application	Integrates Most	Reinforces Learning	Provides Individual

ED MAP Simulations - not evaluated

SIMZ-MGMT-001 9 Improving Organizational Performance

Over the years, organizations have realized that employees are their biggest assets. Satisfied employees work harder and are more likely to continue with the organization. The psychological processes that run within an individual affect the individual^'s attitude at work. Therefore, an understanding of organizational psychology — the scientific study of individual and group behavior in an organizational setting — is vital for both the employer and the employee. While the employer can use this information to make the organization more productive, the employee can have a better understanding of the facets of work that affect performance. This simulation illustrates the use of organizational psychology to understand the causes of employee dissatisfaction and suggest measures

to alleviate the problems.

SIMZ-MGMT-0025 Managing Lifecycle Influences in an Organization

The life cycle of an organization consists of start-up, growth, maturity and decline stages. Internal factors, external factors or a combination of both affect the four stages. Each stage also creates different kinds of needs in an organization. This simulation illustrates the unique challenges faced by a not-for-profit organization at various life cycle stages. Appropriate for an advanced course.

SIMZ-MGMT-0046 Using Performance Metrics

Performance measurement is an important function in an organization. Successful performance measurement entails choosing the correct indicators, analyzing them in detail and making the right inferences. Moreover, performance measurement also helps companies identify key actionable areas and strategize for the future. This simulation illustrates the process of a performance audit for a not-for-profit university