Classification

GENERAL x FUNCTIONAL: Business simulation can be defined as general or functional, according to the reaching level of the problem. General simulators are designed to develop top management skills. In this situation, the most important functional areas of the company are taken into account. These managers develop skills in making decisions concerning the company policies, as well as coordinating efforts in order to reach strategic aimed goals. Functional simulators are designed to develop tactical skills. Among these areas we can quote Finances, Production, Marketing, and Human Resources.

INTERACTIVE x NON-INTERACTIVE: Business simulation are considered interactive if a company's decision influences the competitor's results. In the non-interactive simulators the results of a company are not influenced by the decisions taken by the others companies, although they are able to compete simultaneously. Usually, general simulators are interactive games and functional simulators are non-interactive ones.

INDIVIDUAL x TEAM: All business simulation can be administrated individually but, according to the goals yet to be reached, they must be applied in teams. In the functional simulators, since the goal is aimed at developing managing skills in an specific area, it is mostly applied individually. In the general simulators, teams are advised in order to have decisions taken after discussions among participants. Adopting this approach, besides acquiring technic skills, the participants also observe the interpersonal influence in the decision process.