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Describes the development of a computer‐based game, “The Supply Chain Game”, designed to allow teams of managers to experience the management of a multi‐level supply chain. The game provides a practical and realistic learning experience based on actual data and can be used as both a competitive team exercise and as a stand‐alone training aid. It is beneficial in enhancing team building, training and promoting the understanding of logistics.

Accepted logistics theory states that short lead times are consistent with high accuracy of customer service and low levels of inventory. Yet global or theatre based manufacturing strategies are lengthening lead times, extending supply chains and increasing risk of both excessive inventory and poor customer service. Logistics strategies to manage the conflicting interests of manufacturing and marketing and distribution have proved difficult to evolve. Strategic Lead Time Management is a computer modelling approach designed to identify and maximize the value added: cost added ratio in supply chain design. It is based on simulating the relationship between organisational process and procedure and the flow of inventory through the supply chain. This paper describes the approach and the results that can be achieved.