Business Simulation Games in Innovation Management: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

The use of business simulation games in organizational change and capacity building has grown significantly. Yet, a thorough understanding of how empirical studies on business simulation games contribute to innovation management remains elusive. To address this need, a systematic review was conducted, encompassing articles published between 2003 and 2023. A meticulous selection process yielded 23 empirical studies, employing the PRISMA model to shed light on the role of simulation games in innovation management. Through the synthesis of the gathered outcomes, it was conclusively established that simulation games serve to enhance requisite skills, instigate positive behavioural transformations, and validate the design process of simulation games. The research predominantly relied on experimental studies and Design-Based Research methods to substantiate these claims. Nevertheless, it is imperative to note that future investigations should establish wider generalizability of these findings and facilitate the creation of simulation games that closely mirror the innovation processes inherent within organizations. This study is significant as it is the first systematic review in this area. It enhances our understanding of the development of simulation games over the last twenty years and outlines directions for future research.