The course consists of three components that are supported by a solid theoretical foundation:

• Virtual global business simulation
• Stepwise development of a business plan
• Solution of real-life company cases

The course offers in-classroom and online sessions combining different learning approaches. Foundations in theory, practical relevance, as well as hands-on experiences will be provided through the cornerstones of this course. Tailored assignments link the different formats.

The first (self-study) part of the course sets the theoretical background for the subsequent business simulation. The students are required – after studying the theory - to submit an individual strategic plan.

Student groups use their knowledge of various business fields (e.g., finance, HR, R&D, production) and compete in a realistic business simulation. Groups of up to six students will take charge of their virtual company. The companies start at the same initial position. Therefore, only the combination of the right strategy and accurate operational business management creates a competitive advantage.

Based on the theory, students will create and (as a further step) adapt a business plan of their virtual company (used in the business simulation game). Depending on the performance during the business simulation, student groups have to adapt their business plan to the new market conditions. Hence, the creation and development of their virtual company forms the backbone of their business plan assignment. This assignment is divided into three parts: the individual strategic plan, as well as the groups’ business plan creation and business plan adaptation (letter to shareholders). A range of online materials will be available as best practice examples for this task. 

Top managers and company representatives provide real-life company cases for which the student groups find solutions. These company cases can be either strategy-based or related to a specific management discipline. Companies from various industries will take part. 

Confirmed partners for 2026: UN World Food Programme (WFP), SPAR Österreichische Warenhandels-AG

 Finally, student groups have to present their final business plan in front of a jury. Members will be external business partners with high reputation.

After completing this course, students will have the ability to:

• deal with theoretical frameworks of various business fields
• develop a strategic business plan
• cope with ambiguity
• structure complex and ill-defined problems
• have the ability to evaluate the market environment and react in a real business situation
• justify their business decisions in front of an experienced jury

Apart from that, completing this course will contribute to student's ability to:

• efficiently work and communicate in mixed groups
• improve their oral and written communication and presentation skills
• learn to give and receive constructive feedback
• manage complexity by completing different parallel tasks during the course

Participants are expected to be present at all modules.

Exceptions from this attendance rule need to be individually discussed with the course instructors. 

Online sessions are part of the course and need to be attended as well.

The course will combine various learning methods to deliver the different topics including readings, in- class discussions, online meetings, group work, individual group coaching and presentations in front of practitioners.

Individual Performance (28%):

• Take home assignment:
  • 20% Individual strategic plan
• Individual participation (Business simulation groups):
  • 8% Peer grading (group members)

Group Performance (72%): 

• Company case performance:
  • 14% Company case 1 (extended slide deck of workshop results) 
  • 14% Company case 2 (extended slide deck of workshop results)
• Business plan performance:
  • 10% Initial business plan (pitch deck)
  • 6% Letter to shareholders
  • 4% Presentation business plan workshop
• Business Simulation performance:
  • 16% Jury presentation (10%) + final student report (6%)
  • 8% Competitive result

• Excellent (1): 87.5%-100% 
• Good (2): 75%-<87.5%
• Satisfactory (3): 62.5%-<75%
• Sufficient (4): 50%-<62.5%
• Fail (5): <50%

Students need to complete all courses of the 1st semester of the SIMC Program.

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BYOD - Students are required to bring their own laptop/tablet to class. The business simulation bases on an online cloud system, so no pre-installation is necessary.

There are NO additional course costs for students (costs for CESIM licenses are covered by the department).

Further details will be published on learn@WU after registration.