Title: Enhancing lean training for the office environment through simulation and gaming

Authors: S. Moussa Mirehei, Glenn Kuriger, Hung-Da Wan, F. Frank Chen

Addresses: Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Lean Systems, The University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249-0670, USA. ' Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Lean Systems, The University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249-0670, USA. ' Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Lean Systems, The University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249-0670, USA. ' Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Lean Systems, The University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249-0670, USA

Abstract: Modern training methods call for active engagement of the trainees in the training process. Simulation games are among the most effective methods of training. As waste elimination concepts become more popular, numerous lean training packages have been developed. Most of these packages include simulation games as a hands-on training tool. So far, lean simulation games have largely focused on manufacturing. However, administrative or office processes also contain a great deal of waste and could benefit from a game aimed at their processes. This paper proposes a lean office simulation game to demonstrate the effect of lean implementation on office processes. The game uses four phases to simulate the impact of several lean tools. Various performance metrics are recorded during the game to capture the impact of these tools. A case study of the game played by administrative personnel is included along with an analysis of the results.

Keywords: lean training; lean simulation; lean gaming; office processes; office environments; active engagement; trainees; simulation games; waste elimination; hands-on training; administrative procedures; administration; office simulations; lean implementation; performance metrics; administrative personnel; learning innovation; intellectual capital; management.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLIC.2011.039447

International Journal of Learning and Intellectual Capital, 2011 Vol.8 No.2, pp.206 - 221

Published online: 27 Nov 2014 *

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