E-Commerce Simulation

In the simulation, participants will:

• Analyze market research and competitor data to identify opportunities.

• Develop and execute a multi-channel digital marketing plan within a set budget.

• Select products, set prices, and manage inventory levels to meet forecasted demand.

• Allocate resources to improve website functionality and customer experience.

• Interpret financial dashboards to assess profitability and adjust strategy.

• Present their business strategy and results to potential "investors" or stakeholders.

• Understand the core operational and strategic components of an e-commerce business.

• Formulate an integrated digital marketing strategy balancing brand building and performance marketing.

• Apply financial principles to manage budgets, calculate unit economics, and drive profitability.

• Make data-informed decisions to optimize product assortment, pricing, and inventory.

• Analyze competitive dynamics and adapt business strategy accordingly.

• Communicate a coherent business strategy and performance results effectively.

1. Receive the Business Brief Participants are introduced to their company's starting position, market data, and initial capital.

** 2. Analyze the Landscape** They review competitive intelligence, customer analytics, and financial reports from the previous period.

3. Make Strategic Decisions Teams allocate their budget, plan marketing campaigns, set prices, order inventory, and approve website improvements.

4. Collaborate and Compete Teams debate priorities, may form partnerships, and react to the market moves of other participant teams.

5. Review Round Results The simulation processes all decisions, generating updated market share, financial statements, and performance metrics.

6. Adapt and Advance Based on feedback, participants refine their strategy for the next round, learning from both successes and setbacks.

• Who is this e-commerce simulation designed for? It's ideal for students in business, marketing, or entrepreneurship programs, as well as professionals seeking to understand the drivers of digital business success.

• Do I need prior experience in e-commerce or coding? No prior experience is required. The simulation is designed to be accessible, with instructional content guiding participants through all key concepts.

• How long does the e-commerce simulation typically run? A full simulation experience typically runs 4-6 hours, but it can be condensed into shorter modules or extended into a multi-session project.

• Is the simulation individual or team-based? It works excellently in both formats. Team-based play encourages collaboration and mirrors real-world cross-functional decision-making.

• What metrics are used to measure success in the simulation? Performance is measured by a balanced scorecard including profitability, market share growth, marketing ROI, inventory efficiency, and overall company valuation.

• Are the market dynamics and consumer behavior realistic? Yes. The simulation uses algorithms based on real-world economic and consumer principles to create a responsive and competitive market environment.

• Can the simulation focus on specific topics like SEO or supply chain? Absolutely. Instructors can customize scenarios and adjust parameters to emphasize particular learning areas like digital marketing, operations, or finance.

• How does this simulation help with SEO understanding practically? Participants make direct decisions on keyword strategy and content investment, seeing how these choices impact organic traffic and sales within the simulated market, illustrating the tangible ROI of SEO efforts.

• Financial health and profitability of their virtual business.

• Effectiveness and ROI of their digital marketing strategy.

• Operational efficiency in inventory and supply chain management.

• Coherence and persuasiveness of their strategic business presentations.

• Ability to adapt strategy based on data and market feedback.