Product Pipeline

This spirited interactive business simulation encourages participants to work together within their small teams, as well as within the larger “company.” Each small team or “department” of 4 to 8 people works in an 8′×8′ area that is connected to the working areas of other teams.

Groups must use limited supplies (PVC, balloons, bamboo stakes, rubber bands, etc.) to construct a device that will safely transport the maximum number of marbles. The real clincher: each team’s section of the pipeline must interface with those before and after it. Your pipeline has minimum marble “revenue” requirement to meet. Pipeline departments also have a budget that they can spend on additional materials. Your designated marketing department presents a wonderfully creative pitch for the pipeline product before the final moment of truth. This diversity of roles gives everyone a chance to be included.

This is a great way to emphasize big-picture thinking, and clearly demonstrates how individual contributions add up to overall group success. Product pipeline includes a customizable debrief focusing on team effectiveness, communication, seeing the big picture, and time and resource management. Come on, let’s get the ball rolling!