The Tom Peters Business School in a Box simulation game was published by Alfred A. Knopf in 1995.
About The Game
The Tom Peters Business School in a Box is a game that teaches users how to be successful in business via interactive role-playing simulations and case study activities. It was written by professional simulation game designer Eric Goldberg, with management guru Tom Peters.
This unique training tool is just as its title describes. It covers concepts included in business school curricula, and it is in fact delivered in a box. This powerful training program develops and hones skills needed for success in the business world.
How It Works
The game is designed to be played by individuals or groups of up to six players. Each player takes on one or more roles in an organization. An individual who plays by him or herself ends up playing all of the roles, thereby getting a sense of what it is like to be a sole proprietor.
Example Simulation
In one of the simulation exercises, players are challenged with coming up with a way to improve small car production for Ford Motor Company. The game includes more than 40 different exercises, so participants can enjoy and learn from a wide variety of real-life business management and decision making scenarios.
Features
- Agenda Records
- Book (guide to the case studies and simulations)
- Dice
- Diskette
- Personal Agenda Cards
- Time Cards
About Author Eric Goldberg
Eric Goldberg is the Managing Director of Crossover Technologies, an organization recognized as a pioneer in online gaming. He is a frequently featured speaker at leading wireless industry and gaming conferences.
Additional Professional Associations
Goldberg serves as a consultant, advisor, or board member for numerous organizations, including the following:
- Digital Chocolate
- Kayak
- M(forma)
- Openwave
- Unplugged
- Vindigo
- Warner Music Group
Goldberg's Award Winning Games Include
- Mad Maze
- Paranoia
- Tales of the Arabian Nights
- The Tom Peters Business School in a Box
- Many additional titles
About Author Tom Peters
Tom Peters is an internationally renowned management consultant, speaker, and author. He is the founder of the Tom Peters Company, which operates from hubs in Boston, Vermont, and London. The Los Angeles Times described Peters as "the father of the post-modern corporation."In the foreword for the game, Peters expressed his belief that the top performers in the business world are those who understand the necessity of ongoing practice and continual refinement of skills. Throughout Peters' career, he has served as a source of inspiration and a resource for ideas for high performers in pursuit of reaching their professional potential.
Books by Tom Peters
- A Passion for Excellence
- In Search of Excellence
- Jump Start Your Business Brain
- Liberation Management
- Re-imagine! - Business Excellence in a Disruptive Age
- Seuss-isms for Success
- Thriving on Chaos
- The Brand You 50(Reinventing Work)
- The Circle of Innovation
- The Pursuit of Wow!: Every Person's Guide to Topsy-Turvy Times
- Many other titles
Where to Find Business School in a Box
While the Tom Peters Business School in a Box is no longer in print, it can be found from several online resources for used books and training materials.
The Idea of a Business in a Box
The "business in a box" concept is still popular today, for both training and business operations purposes. For example, Envision SBS markets a "business in a box" package that includes a comprehensive collection of the forms, documents, presentations, etc. that business owners are likely to need. Other organizations offer "business in a box" training solutions, which are designed to provide individuals with everything they need know to get ready to open a particular type of business or prepare for a new career. For example, Carole Martin's Interview Coach Business in a Box is created for professional coaches who want to expand their services to include job interview coaching. It includes workbooks, reading materials, training videos, marketing materials, and more.
Lessons to Be Learned
Simulation games can be powerful teaching tools. This game is an excellent way to better understand the responsibilities associated with different types of jobs. Companies who operate internal management training programs can utilize this tool to help employees figure out if they want to pursue a management career or not. It is also beneficial for use in higher education training programs, team building activities, and as a resource for helping individuals figure out which career path is best for them.
