Threshold Competitor (3rd Edition)

Rating:
Summary: We learned together as a team.
Review: The handbook was helpful and easy to understand. The software was somewhat hard to understand. It would have been helpful to know what the rating system was before we started. Also more information on how to forecast sales might be helpful. I learned from the experience how to work together to accomplish a task. I would recommond this book to anyone in business.

Rating:
Summary: A True Learning Experience
Review: The textbook that was used to teach threshold was a true learning experience. I believe that the program allowed students to learn how the world of business operates in the eyes of a small business operation. I learned the different approaches you have to look while trying to make your business the most profitable. I do think that the program should have contained an 800 number to allow students to speak to a representative that would help with any questions the student would have. Overall, the book was a true learning experience.

Rating:
Summary: What kind of business is this?
Review: This book has very little practical use for any business students today. Sure, it gives information on budgets, inventory, cost analysis, and ethical business dilemmas. However, no company tries to sell a product without actually knowing who there market is or what product they are selling. No business loses all of their customer base from one quarter to the next. There are many other problems with this scenario that eliminates its validity to future business leaders.

Rating:
Summary: Needs more development
Review: Threshold Competitor is the best simulation I've ever used, but then it is the only simulation I've used. There were definitely some aspects of Threshold that need improvement. The guide is not organized in a very user-friendly manner. I found myself spending a lot of timing digging in the manual trying to figure out details about the program. I realize that the simulation cannot encompass all aspects of actually running a small business. However, it would be much more interesting if the user had more control over some decisions. I really felt that if we knew what we were producing, the writers could better develop the marketing section. Overall, I found the simulation useful in helping me develop the skills I will need as a strategic manager in the accounting department.