Title: Build your seaport in a game and learn about complex systems

Authors: Geertje Bekebrede, Igor Mayer

Addresses: Faculty of Technology, Policy and Management, Delft University of Technology, P.O. Box 5015, 2600 GA Delft, The Netherlands. ' Faculty of Technology, Policy and Management, Delft University of Technology, P.O. Box 5015, 2600 GA Delft, The Netherlands

Abstract: The authors demonstrate how simulation games can be used to test and explore initial infrastructure designs before they are implemented. Games can provide important learning experiences for (future) designers and managers. The case study of a computer-supported simulation game, SIM Maasvlakte 2 (SIM MV2), uses a game whose object is to design and allocate land for the Maasvlakte 2 port area, to be built between 2006 and 2036 in the Port of Rotterdam, the Netherlands. The evaluation aimed at improving the game, examining the system complexity of the seaport, and establishing corresponding learning effects among the participants.

Keywords: complex systems; decision support systems; DSS; gaming; simulation games; infrastructures; ports; port development; planning; learning; infrastructure design.

DOI: 10.1504/JDR.2006.011366

Journal of Design Research, 2006 Vol.5 No.2, pp.273 - 298

Published online: 23 Nov 2006 *

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