What’s in a name?

Business simulation, gamification and serious games. Are they different or just forms of the same process? The answer, unhelpfully perhaps, is both ‘yes’ and ‘no’. Gamification is billed as the application of game dynamics to non-game environments and in that respect both simulation and serious games qualify. Whether it is a business board game with strategic decision making to the fore, an enterprise simulation which models a specific part of a business, or a 3D game where future surgeons practise open-heart surgery the essence of gameplay is present in all of them.

The Babel Problem

Clark Aldrich describes his own version of the ‘Babel Problem’ in his terrific book The Complete Guide to Simulations and Serious Games, namely: do we use the term “Serious Games” or “Educational Simulations” as a common definition of simulations for educational purposes. His contention is that the lack of a definition accepted by all has hindered the progression and development of the simulation ‘space’ as practitioners, developers and organizations remain unclear of the language needed to communicate. The crux of his argument can be found here but it’s an issue that should concern all of us who recognize the power and value in simulation use.