Jeremy Hall developed an architectonic, or systematic framework, for structuring the design of computer simulations for business training. The architectonic is based on analyzing needs and constraints, extracting core values of effective and efficient learning, and exploring design elements like the simulation model and delivery process. This translates into an architecture that standardizes 83-98% of the simulation while allowing for flexibility and customization. Using this architectonic improved development time and allowed old simulations to be re-engineered and re-launched.

1. Computer Simulation:
A design architectonic1
Jeremy J. S. B. Hall
Hall Marketing
jeremyhall@simulations.co.uk
1 architectonic: pertaining to systemization of knowledge

2. Introduction
• Micro business
• Create & Provide Computer Simulations
for management development &
business training
• Simulations that place business people
in charge of a simulated company

3. Background
Early 1990’s decided to re-engineer
my simulations to:
• Better meet training needs
• Speed development
• Future-proof my designs
Needed way to structure my work

4. The Architectonic
Needs and Core Values
Constraints
Design
Elements
Architectural
Elements
Architecture
Outcomes

5. Needs and Constraints
Knowledge
• Development Needs = Skills
product purpose
Motivation
Major concern
• Duration = Assessment
cost elements
and constraint
Trainees
Learning
• Target Audiences Trainers
= buyers & users
Training Providers
On Course
Training Clients
• Manner of Use = E-learning
usage needs
Other

6. Core Values
(learner & trainer viewpoints)
• Effective Learning Link to
• Development Needs
• Audience
• Efficient Learning Needs vs Duration
• Manner of Use
Audience Viewpoints
Constrained by duration
Effective Delivery
• Consistent Learning CF academic teaching
Every learner on every
course
provide touchstones

7. Design Elements
Goodness perceptions
• Simulation Model = Purpose needs
product
Cognition
• Delivery Dynamics = Affection use
product
Workload
Administration
• Tutoring Needs = Facilitationneeds
human
Learning Management
Development Needs
• Diversity Learners:range needs
= knowledge & experience
Trainer Skills
Manner of Use

8. Architectural Elements
Lean design based on
• Simulation Model = market needs pull rather
market orientation
than realism push.
Economic Calibration
• Delivery Process Ramped Complexity
= Tutor System
product dynamics
Help Intervention
FeedbackScreening
Decision Style
• Tutor Support = Explanations
ancillary services
Comments
Different:
Tutor’s Audit Needs
• Development
• Multiple Versions = Team Commentary
differentiation
• Trainer Requirements
• Manner of Use
• Markets

9. The Architecture

10. Experience & Outcomes
• Eight new simulations developed
• Nineteen old simulations re-engineered
• Future Proofing - 1970s & 1980s simulations re-
engineered and re-launched
• Flexibility & Customisability
• Shell 83% – 98% (Model 17% – 2%)
• Development time 20% of previous
• Innovation Award Winner!
• Outstanding Contribution to Training Industry Award

11. Summary
1. Analyse and define Market Needs
• Product purpose
• Customer cost elements
• Users and Buyers
• Usage needs
1. Extract & summarise Core Values
2. Explore product, dynamics, usage & variety
3. Translate into architecture
4. Develop Products

12. Jeremy J. S. B. Hall
Hall Marketing
Phone 020 7537 2982
E-mail jeremyhall@simulations.co.uk
Web www.simulations.co.uk
from knowledge through simulated
experience to wisdom