“Get ready to dive into the future of business education! In an era where technology is revolutionizing the way we work, learn, and interact, the Central Michigan University’s College of Business is taking a giant leap forward. Imagine a platform where students can step into the shoes of a CEO, navigate the complexities of global supply chains, and make data-driven decisions that shape the fate of a virtual company – all in a matter of hours. Welcome to the 2025 Next-Gen Central ERPSim, a cutting-edge simulation experience that’s redefining the boundaries of business education. In this exclusive article, we’ll take you behind the scenes of this innovative event, where the brightest minds in business come together to shape the leaders of tomorrow. Buckle up and discover how CMU’s College of Business is pioneering the next generation of business leaders with its groundbreaking ERPSim experience!”
The ERPsim Maple Syrup Game: A Taste of Real-World Business
The College of Business Administration welcomed high school students from the Gratiot Isabella Technical Education Center (GI-TEC) to campus on Friday, April 4, for the Next-Gen Central ERPsim event. Held in the Grawn Hall atrium, the half-day competition introduced students to real-world business operations through SAP, a global enterprise software platform.
Students competed in a dynamic business simulation known as the ERPsim Maple Syrup Game, where teams managed virtual companies by adjusting pricing, marketing, procurement, and logistics. The event was structured into three rounds, each simulating a full business cycle in real-time.
Teams in Action: Strategy, Planning, and Execution
During the kickoff, faculty guided students through the basics of SAP and the ERPsim structure. Participants worked together on strategy and planning before each round began. As teams adjusted their strategies, CMU faculty reminded them of the importance of accurate planning and execution in business systems.
The fast-paced structure gave students a real sense of the flow of supply chain decisions. Each team was paired with a CMU student mentor who guided them through the simulation, answered technical questions, and offered encouragement.
CMU Faculty and Student Mentors: Guiding the Way
Zhanning Liu, a graduate student in CMU’s Master of Science in Information Systems program, served as one of the event’s mentors. “It was a really interesting experience to be the mentor this time, especially since I was always on the other side playing the simulation as a student and competing with other teams,” Liu said.
“The highlight of the day was definitely getting to connect with the high school students and teach them how to use the SAP system,” he said. “I encouraged them to ask questions and guided them as they made business decisions. In the end, all of them were happy and excited that they got the chance to compete. It was a rewarding experience for everyone involved.”
Implications and Practical Aspects
Building Confidence, Communication, and Connection
Events like Next-Gen Central in building essential skills for business leaders, such as confidence, communication, and connection. These skills are crucial for success in the business world, and hands-on experiences like ERPsim can help students develop them.
The Future of Business Education: Embracing Hands-on Experiences
Hands-on experiences like ERPsim can shape the future of business education and prepare students for the workforce. By introducing students to real-world business operations and systems, ERPsim can help bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical application.
Getting Involved: Opportunities for Future Participation
To learn more about the Next-Gen Central event or to schedule a future simulation, contact Christine Witt at [email protected].
Conclusion
In conclusion, the CMU College of Business’s successful hosting of the 2025 Next-Gen Central ERPSim competition marks a significant milestone in the institution’s commitment to fostering innovative and experiential learning. As discussed in this article, the event brought together top talent from across the nation, providing a platform for students to showcase their skills in navigating complex business scenarios. The competition’s focus on ERP simulations not only bridged the gap between academia and industry but also underscored the importance of equipping future business leaders with the necessary tools to thrive in an increasingly digital landscape.
The implications of this event extend far beyond the confines of the competition itself. As the business world continues to evolve, the need for professionals with expertise in ERP systems will only continue to grow. By providing students with hands-on experience in these systems, institutions like CMU are not only preparing them for successful careers but also contributing to the development of a more agile and adaptable workforce. As we look to the future, it is clear that events like the Next-Gen Central ERPSim competition will play a vital role in shaping the next generation of business leaders.