Purpose of This Document
This document has been created to provide an overview of the Balanced Scorecard simulation.
- System requirements and preparation
- Step-by-step login instructions
- Guidance on navigating roles and team participation
- Troubleshooting common technical issues
- Support contacts and next steps
We encourage all learners to review this guide prior to the simulation session to ensure a smooth start.
1. Preparing for the Simulation
Before accessing the simulation, it is essential to confirm that your system meets the required technical specifications. Most access and performance issues can be avoided by taking the time to verify compatibility in advance.
System Requirements
- Device: Desktop or laptop computer (tablets and mobile devices are not supported)
- Operating System: Updated version of Windows or macOS
- Browser: Latest version of Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge (Safari is not supported)
- Internet Connection: Stable connection with at least 5 Mbps. A wired (Ethernet) connection is ideal.
- Firewall/VPN: If you are on a corporate or school network, ensure the simulation URL is whitelisted. VPNs may interfere with access.
System Compatibility Check
To confirm your device is ready to run the simulation, please complete the compatibility check using the link below:
Compatibility Tool:
Browser Compatibility Checklist
Completing this step is highly recommended prior to the session to ensure that all relevant software is downloaded and up to date.
2. Accessing the Simulation
Once your system has been verified, you may proceed to log in.
Login Instructions
- Open your approved browser on your desktop or laptop.
- Navigate to the simulation platform:
Harvard Business School | Balance Scorecard Game - Enter the username and password provided to you. Please note that both are case-sensitive.
- If you are unable to log in, open the link in a private/incognito window and attempt login again.
If login issues continue, refer to the troubleshooting section of this guide or contact your facilitator.
3. Simulation Roles and Participation
Each team is composed of designated roles. It is important to understand the responsibilities and limitations of each role.
Role Descriptions
-
Data Entry (Required):
- Only one learner per team
- Responsible for creating the team profile and submitting decisions
- This role must be present for the team to proceed
-
Data Analyst (Optional):
- Can view data and participate in decision-making
- Cannot submit final team decisions
Note: You can play the simulation as a team of one, provided you are assigned the Data Entry role.
4. Common Technical Issues and How to Resolve Them
Issue: Unable to Log In
Recommend Actions:
- Open the login link in an incognito window.
- Ensure the correct username and password are being used (case-sensitive).
- Check your internet connection.
- Re-confirm system compatibility using the check tool.
If login problems persist, your facilitator may impersonate your account or re-upload your user profile to the simulation.
Forgot Password?
Use the reset link below and click “Forgot password?”:
https://forio.com/simulate/session/signin/
You will receive a reset email from system@forio.com with the subject line:
“Forio Simulate Forgot Password”. Please check your spam or junk folder if you do not receive the message.
Issue: “Create Profile” Tab Not Visible
Only the learner assigned the Data Entry role will be able to create the team profile. If you are not in that role, wait until the profile is created to proceed.
If you are the Data Entry learner and do not see the tab:
- Refresh your browser
- Confirm your role with your facilitator
Issue: Simulation is Not Progressing
Only the Data Entry learner can submit team decisions. If your team is logged in and unable to start a round:
- Confirm that the assigned Data Entry person is logged in
- That individual must submit the decision to move the simulation forward
Issue: Lag, Freezing, or Simulation Not Loading Properly
Recommended Steps:
- Refresh your browser
- Switch to a wired internet connection or use a mobile hotspot
- Close all unnecessary tabs and background applications
- If using a VPN, try disconnecting or switch to a non-corporate network
Issue: Mistake Made – Can We Go Back to a Previous Round?
Facilitators can reset your team’s progress if needed. However, all previously submitted decisions will be deleted.
If your team requires a reset, please contact your facilitator. Once confirmed, they can reset your team via the simulation’s Monitor Game dashboard.
5. Strategic Participation and Simulation Decisions
This simulation is designed to replicate real-world ambiguity and data-driven decision-making. You are encouraged to:
- Use the in-simulation data to inform your decisions
- Discuss strategy with your teammates
- Proceed with the best decision possible based on the available information
Facilitators will not provide in-the-moment decision-making advice, as this is a critical part of the learning process. Your decisions and outcomes will be reviewed during the debrief session.
6. Connecting to Live Debrief or Instructional Sessions
If your simulation includes a live session via Zoom, Teams, or WebEx, please ensure you are prepared ahead of time.
If You Cannot Connect:
- Confirm your meeting link, time, and time zone
- Try opening the link in a different browser or device
- Contact the Live Event Help team for immediate assistance:
Live Event Technical Support
Email: liveeventhelp@harvardbusiness.org
This support team actively monitors the inbox during events and can assist you in real-time.
7. After the Simulation
Upon completion of the simulation:
- You may receive a read-only summary of your team’s performance
- Key takeaways will be discussed in the debrief session
- You are encouraged to reflect on your decisions and what you might do differently
Please keep this guide for future reference. The technical guidance provided here applies to most simulations hosted by Harvard Business Publishing on the Forio platform.
For Additional Support
If you require further assistance at any point, please contact your program coordinator or facilitator directly. For technical concerns not resolved by this guide, the following support channels are available:
- Live Event Support: liveeventhelp@harvardbusiness.org
- General Technical Help: learnersupport@harvardbusiness.org
We are here to ensure your simulation experience is smooth, informative, and successful.