Root Beer Game
Supply Chain Management
Simulation Overview
Working in teams of four, the learners manage a Root Beer supply chain for up to thirty-five simulated weeks. Each week, the participants examine inventory, anticipate demand, and send orders to the adjacent connection in the supply chain.
Players
Multiplayer
Single Player
Languages
English
Simulation Time
Total Time: 2 hours
Intro 10 minutes, Gameplay 30 minutes, Debrief 1 hour
Accessibility
WCAG 2.0 Compliance
Price
$165 per person
Simulation Categories
The Story
This updated edition of the popular supply chain simulation offers a dynamic, fast-paced learning experience with expanded configuration options and a modernized design. It gives teams a firsthand look at the “bullwhip effect,” in which small shifts in customer demand amplify fluctuations in orders and inventory as they move upstream through the supply chain.
Participants assume one of four roles—factory, distributor, wholesaler, or retailer—and make weekly decisions on inventory, demand forecasting, and order quantities. With limited visibility, shipping delays, and pressure to avoid both stockouts and excess inventory, teams must make rapid, coordinated decisions that mirror real-world supply chain challenges.
Facilitators can customize scenarios to highlight different drivers of the bullwhip effect and spark discussion around mitigation strategies, such as information sharing, lead-time reduction, and smarter ordering policies. The simulation supports both multiplayer and single-player modes, and an optional computer-controlled player ensures whole team participation when group sizes vary.
Designed to meet WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards, this simulation equips corporate teams with practical insights into supply chain dynamics, collaboration, and performance optimization.
Core Competencies
Systems Thinking
Operational Efficiency
Measurement and Analysis
Cost Benefit Analysis
Learning Objectives
Resources to Power Your Simulation
Each simulation comes with a Facilitation Guide along with 1:1 facilitator training and free trials.
Available with this simulation
Facilitation Guide
Debrief Slides
Intro Slides
Free Trial & Demo
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