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Decision-making guide
Accounting
Table of Contents
1. Simulation platform introduction ............................................................................... 2
1.1 Game Arena ....................................................................................................................... 2
1.2 Readings............................................................................................................................. 2
1.3 Forum ................................................................................................................................ 3
1.4 Main Objective & Winning Criteria ...................................................................................... 4
1.5 Successful decision-making flow.......................................................................................... 4
2. Game Arena .............................................................................................................. 5
2.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 5
2.2 Food for Thought ................................................................................................................ 5
2.3 Memo ................................................................................................................................ 6
2.4 Information ........................................................................................................................ 7
2.5 Accounts ............................................................................................................................ 7
2.6 Evaluation .......................................................................................................................... 9
2.7 Decision checklist ............................................................................................................. 10
2.8 Report .............................................................................................................................. 11
2.9 Synopsis ........................................................................................................................... 12
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1. Simulation platform introduction
1.1 Game Arena
The gaming arena interface comprises various decision tabs that includes decision areas such
as Memo, Information, Accounts, Evaluation and Reports. Some sections must be completed
first as they have an impact on other areas.
Figure 1 The Gaming Arena
1.2 Readings
This section provides essential materials necessary for participants to actively engage in the
game. The main reading material consists of a guide for decision-making, supplemented by
optional additional resources chosen by instructors. Moreover, a walkthrough video is
accessible, offering in-depth information about the scenario featured in the simulation. This
video presents insights into the case scenario, market outlook and the diverse array of
decisions required.
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Figure 2 The Reading Section
1.3 Forum
Figure 3 The Forum Section
• The forums provide an excellent platform for participants to engage with their instructors
or peers.
• There are two separate forums: the Individual Forum and the Course Forum. The
Individual Forum allows participants to communicate directly with the instructor, while
the Course Forum is accessible to all enrolled players.
• Instructors can view and respond to posts in both sections. Consequently, the Course
Forum is an appropriate space for asking questions that can benefit the entire course,
while the Individual Forum is the preferred channel for the individual to have a direct
discussion with the professor.
• Participants will receive notifications for messages.
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1.4 Main Objective & Winning Criteria
Mr. Raj's newly started paper manufacturing company is experiencing financial discrepancies
between his diligent daily ledger recordings and the bank statements, indicating potential
financial issues. An advisor identified key challenges: incomplete ledger entries, unclear cash
flow management causing negative cash flow periods, and mingling of personal and business
expenses. To address these, the advisor suggested hiring a manager to improve financial
clarity across various functions. As the appointed Senior Manager, the tasks involve preparing
comprehensive financial statements to aid in informed decision-making for the company's
financial health and growth.
1.5 Successful decision-making flow
The sequence of decision-making unfolds as follows:
Readings
Report Memo
Receive feedback on Detailed information
your performance. on the case scenario.
Decision Checklist Food for Thought Information
Review the decisions Section for It contains records of the
made and submit the reflection various transactions
decisions. conducted within the
company.
Evaluation
Describe the opportunities to Accounting
the stakeholder that can Tasked with preparing
improve their financial accounting statements,
statements, business based on the transactional
performance & long-term data provided in the
sustainability. information section.
Figure 4 The Sequence of Decision-Making Process
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2. Game Arena
2.1 Introduction
This page encompasses information detailing the functioning of the simulation and provides
insights into each tab’s decision-making.
Figure 5 The Introduction Tab
2.2 Food for Thought
This segment provides crucial aspects to consider, offering valuable insights for decision-
making.
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Figure 6 The food for Thought Section
2.3 Memo
Prior to commencing the decision-making process, it is essential to carefully examine the
"Memo" section. This section offers vital information on case scenario, role of the participant
and the key factors to consider when making decisions in each tab.
Figure 7 The Memo Tab
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2.4 Information
The information tab offers a detailed record of the company's financial transactions,
encompassing sales, purchases, expenses, as well as insights into funds raised, share issuance,
and loans. It also outlines strategic investment decisions made by the company. Furthermore,
the tab addresses the challenges faced and the solutions implemented to overcome them.
Figure 8 The information section under the Game Arena
Thorough review of this content is essential for participants to make well-informed decisions,
as it provides a comprehensive overview of the company’s financial activities and strategic
initiatives.
2.5 Accounts
On the accounts tab, the participant will begin preparing the financial statements. Using the
detailed transaction data available in the information section, participants will start with the
preparation of the Balance Sheet, followed by the Income Statement, and then the Cash Flow
Statement.
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Figure 9 Financial statement preparation in the Game Arena
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2.6 Evaluation
In the evaluation tab, participants can recommend the best opportunities to improve the
company's financial situation in the coming years. They may consider the various strategies
among the choices including debt restructuring, introducing a new production line, investing
in training and development, and enhancing cash flow through leasing, etc.
By analysing the implications of these choices, including the benefits, investment cost, and
the long-term impact of each option, participants can identify the most effective strategies for
the round. Options that demonstrate high value creation are more likely to receive approval
from management.
Figure 10 The Opportunities decision Area in the Game Arena
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2.7 Decision checklist
The Decision Checklist helps participants review and adjust their decisions before the
deadline. Once decisions are finalized, participants can submit them using the Submit option
if they choose to proceed with the Decision Checklist. The Decision Checklist helps participants
review and finalize their decisions. Once decisions are confirmed, they can submit them using
the "Submit" option and choose save and proceed. It's important to remember that once
decisions are submitted and saved, they cannot be changed for that round. This ensures that
decisions are carefully considered before finalization, promoting clarity and accountability in
the decision-making process.
Figure 11 The Decision Checklist
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2.8 Report
The report section provides the details on the participants' critical thinking abilities in each
aspect. It demonstrates how their thought process influenced the outcomes, providing
insights into the impact of their decision-making skills.
This section consists of feedback on the performance of the participant based on four metrics.
• Rigour: Consistency throughout the decision-making and recommendation.
• Structuring: Logical approach of gathering and analysing information
• Synthesis: Approach towards interpreting information and making informed decisions
• Business Judgement: Ability to evaluate facts, and consider risks and possible implications
when making decisions.
Figure 12 The Report Section
The Scores
The scores section displays the participant's scores based on the accuracy and completeness
of their financial statements.
Opportunities
In this section, participants can review the opportunities and choices they made, along with
the likelihood of management approval. It highlights the value created from these decisions
over one year and three years.
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KPI
In the KPI (key performance indicators) section, participants will find the total score for their
financial statement preparation, as well as the final value creation for the current year and the
three-year period. This information reflects the company's financial direction.
Figure 13 The Report Section
2.9 Synopsis
The synopsis section offers a concise summary of key decision areas and outcomes,
highlighting critical insights including the KPI achieved and strategic directions taken during
the simulation, facilitating comprehensive understanding and future planning.
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Figure 14 The Synopsis
To proceed to the next round, click on the “next round” at the bottom of the synopsis section.
This will redirect participants to the home page, where they can access the next round by
clicking on the corresponding card.
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