Ripple Effect
A business simulation for cross-functional trust and systems thinking.
Ripple Effect is a business simulation where participants manage companies at separate tables, each with distinct goals and resources. Success requires negotiating with other groups whose objectives don't perfectly align — creating realistic pressure around collaboration.
How It Works
Each table runs its own company with different assets and objectives. Success becomes mathematically impossible without negotiating mutually beneficial arrangements with groups whose goals don't perfectly align with your own.
What It Reveals
The game exposes how people navigate tensions between local team success and broader organisational goals. It demonstrates who optimises for their own numbers versus building shared value, how teams handle transparent negotiation, and whether cross-functional relationships are treated as transactions or investments.
Who It's For
Organisations where cross-functional collaboration is genuinely challenging. Works particularly well for:
- Leadership teams from different functions
- Enterprise leadership programmes
- Groups needing to break down silos
Especially effective when paired with organisational data about collaboration breakdowns.