Cameron Balloons Simulation
You'll remember that we're using a common basic format for most of the Project assignments in all Modules -- that is, simulations.
For our final excursion into simulation, we'll try something a bit different -- it's less a game than a fairly complex look into a real enterprise. You have considerable latitude as to what parts of the exercise you want to follow up - just be sure to do something with it!
From the introduction to the simulation:
The Cameron Balloons Virtual Factory
Welcome to the Cameron Balloons virtual factory on Biz/ed. There are four main sections of the factory:
Factory floor - here you'll find worksheets, photos, relevant business studies theories and explanations of each main business function. This section also includes the new work flow and A Day in the Life of.... features.
Cameron Balloons - here there is general information about the company, its history and product range.
Cost breakdown - find out here how much each bit of a balloon will cost you.
Glossary - use this section to get to grips with ballooning jargon. You can click on the glossary icon to find out what a term means.
Cameron Balloons made the Breitling Orbiter balloon that made aviation history by flying right round the world, finishing on 21st March 1999.
If you want you could start your trip around the virtual factory with the virtual tour to see inside the Cameron Balloons factory
Also available is a site map that gives you an overview of the Virtual Factory. The teachers' guide gives information about how to get the best out of the site. We hope you enjoy your trip around the factory. Use the navigation bar at the top of the page to make your way around the main sections of the factory, and click on the home icon to get back to this page any time.
Follow up by clicking on the various parts of the simulation paying particular attention to how operations interact with other functions of the company.
When you are finished think about what you have learned about Cameron Balloons in conjunction with this Module's readings.
Then address the following questions:
What did you learn about Cameron Balloons business process?
Briefly describe the interdependence of Cameron Balloons operations with the other functional areas of the business? Why is understanding this interdependence important and how should it be incorporated into business strategy?
Briefly describe how incorporating IT solutions could help improve operations.
What do you now think of computer-based simulations in general as a learning mechanism? Of this one in particular?
SLP ASSIGNMENT EXPECTATIONS:
Your paper should reflect your personal experiences with this issue. The important part of all these project assignments is to carefully assess your own experiences with the topic, and then reflect critically on what you might have learned about yourself and about situations through this assessment process.
The more that you can use the exercise to develop personal implications for your growth as a potential business person as well as a moral individual, the more value you'll get out of the exercise.
Your paper will be evaluated on the following criteria:
Precision: You carried out the exercise as assigned, or carefully explained the limitations that might have prevented your completing some parts (running out of time isn't generally considered an adequate limitation).
Clarity: Your answers are clear and show your good understanding of the topic.
Breadth and Depth: The scope covered in your paper is directly related to the questions of the assignment and the learning objectives of the module.
Critical thinking: The paper incorporates YOUR reactions, examples, and applications of the material to business that illustrate your reflective judgment and good understanding of the concepts.