The Business Odyssey - Introductory Business Simulation

A shorter, highly accessible simulation ideal as an introduction to business decision-making. Teams manage a car company in either the Low-Cost or Image (premium) market.

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Available on Harvard Business Publishing Education

Faculty can also access The Business Odyssey through the Harvard Business Publishing Education catalog, alongside our other simulations distributed via the platform.

Key Learning Outcomes

Design products

Set prices and build marketing strategies for your market segment.

Manage operations

Balance production capacity, investments, and operational efficiency.

Balance multiple objectives

Profit, sustainability, and employee morale all matter.

What is this business simulation about?

For Universities

Train your students

Introduction to business strategy
Entrepreneurial thinking
Market positioning
Basic financial decision-making
Team collaboration

Train your students

For Corporate

Train your team

Business acumen building
Strategic thinking foundations
Team alignment
Quick business literacy boost
Onboarding & team building

Train your team

Practical Information

Best for

Undergraduate courses, executive education, onboarding programs.

Duration

From 3 to 6 hours playing time.

Logistics

From 4 participants. Online, face-to-face or blended facilitation.

Languages

English, French, Chinese, German.

Technical

Supported on any browser. Supported on any device: mobile, desktop & tablet.

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Simulation Overview

Download our detailed PDF with goals, structure, and learning outcomes.

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Discover the agenda

Get an overview of how a typical simulation day is organized.

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About The Business Odyssey

The Business Odyssey is a short, highly accessible business simulation perfect as an introduction to business decision-making. Teams manage a car company competing in either the low-cost or premium market segment, making decisions about product design, pricing, marketing, production capacity, and sustainability. Its shorter format makes it ideal for undergraduate courses, executive education kick-offs, onboarding programs, and team-building events. Despite its accessibility, the simulation covers core business concepts: market positioning, financial management, operational efficiency, and the balance between profitability and social responsibility. Available in four languages, The Business Odyssey is one of our most widely played simulations across universities and corporations worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does The Business Odyssey last?

The simulation runs from 3 to 6 hours, making it our shortest format - ideal for a half-day or full-day session.

How many participants are needed?

A minimum of just 4 participants, in teams of 1 to 4 people. This makes it very flexible for small groups.

Is this suitable for people with no business experience?

Absolutely. The Business Odyssey is designed as an introduction to business. It is accessible to undergraduates, new employees, and anyone new to business concepts.

What skills does this simulation develop?

Business strategy fundamentals, market positioning, basic financial decision-making, entrepreneurial thinking, and team collaboration.

In which languages is it available?

English, French, Chinese, and German.