FlexSim vs The Business School

FlexSim is 3D discrete-event simulation software for modeling and improving existing or proposed systems. Its realistic 3D graphics visualize system behavior, while drag-and-drop controls let users place objects and resources and import CAD drawings or custom 3D objects. Model-building options include a Standard Object Library, Process Flow activity blocks, FlexScript, and C++ integration. For analysis, FlexSim offers charts, graphs, data tracking, and spreadsheet export. OptQuest integration supports scenario optimization using variables, constraints, and multiple objectives. The Experimenter compares scenarios, distributes replications across CPU cores, and supports report generation and performance measures. Data can be imported and exported through Excel and SQL connectors, with FlexScript APIs for files, sockets, and HTTP requests. The Emulation tool supports Modbus, OPC DA, OPC UA, and certain manufacturer-specific PLC connections; some require an Emulation license. FlexSim is listed for Windows and web, with desktop deployment. Pricing is on request; the free Express trial plan has limits including 30 3D objects and 35 Process Flow activities.

The Business School is a browser-based classroom simulation where student teams run rival firms in a shared market during one lesson. Teams decide prices, hiring, loans, VAT, crises, and deals, with the effects visible in the simulation. Each session supports 6 to 32 students across up to eight firms of three or four. Teachers can pause or resume phases, trigger a crisis, review firm activity, and display a live leaderboard. Students join using a six-digit PIN and a team label or first name, without student accounts or email addresses. They can download private reports, while the teacher receives a curriculum-mapped class report by email within 48 hours. Knowledge Check questions are listed for 23 business courses, including AQA, Pearson Edexcel, OCR, Eduqas, WJEC, Cambridge, BTEC, and IB courses. Session data is stored in an EU database in Frankfurt; the company says it does not sell data or use it for advertising, and teachers can end a session at any time. A free teacher demo is listed. School and trust licence prices are by quote after the pilot. The Autumn 2026 pilot cohort is full, with a waitlist open.