Forward-thinking business leaders
have realized the wisdom of staging virtual simulations-team-based
education that can be conducted in a cost- and time-effective manner-to
prepare future leaders for the unexpected complexities of operating in a
global environment. Though not a replacement for face-to-face
interaction, virtual simulations can nonetheless mirror a company's
real-life challenges and opportunities and allow employees to learn from
and bond with fellow executives, all without the time and expense of
travel required for attending an in-residence program. The experiences
of several global leaders-Microsoft, General Electric, Dell, and Stanley
Black & Decker-reveal the benefits that organizations can glean
from virtual simulations, as well as the best practices for ensuring a
successful virtual training program that meets organizational
objectives. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.