Strategies are often developed on the basis of assumptions about markets, competitors and technological developments. However, especially in uncertain times, it becomes clear that many of these assumptions are not systematically scrutinized or tested under realistic conditions. This is precisely where business wargaming comes in.
A business wargame is a structured strategic simulation that allows strategies and decisions to be played out under realistic competitive conditions. Teams take on different roles – such as those of their own company, key competitors or the market – and simulate how decisions, counter-reactions and external developments interact. Unlike traditional simulation games, the focus is not on theoretical models, but on concrete strategic options and their resilience.
Such simulations reveal where strategies are vulnerable, where competitors could react or which developments are underestimated. They help to anticipate potential surprises, disruptive attacks or market changes – and to avoid making decisions in a vacuum. In dynamic markets in particular, this provides a clearer picture of which options are viable and which risks have been overlooked to date.
Business wargaming can be used for entire companies, individual business areas or specific products. The approach is particularly useful where uncertainty is high, competition is intensifying or strategic decisions need to be made. The method improves the quality of decisions because it makes assumptions verifiable, reveals blind spots and sensitizes teams to possible developments.
Our compact document shows how a business wargame can be set up, which areas of application are suitable and what concrete benefits can be derived from it. It offers a practical introduction to the methodology – and a basis for making strategic decisions more robust in the future.
Download our free PDF on Business Wargaming here.
If you’d like, we’d be happy to talk in person about how a customized wargame could look for your company!
