Board games can be effective learning tools for discovery and GMP training

Pharmaceutical companies spend a lot of money on training, including traditional classroom-type instruction and multimedia teaching products. Education specialists agree that the best way to learn something is by doing it, which is why you should consider two new pharmaceutical industry games from StrataKey, a division of The Learning Key (New Hope, PA). The games target employees who need information on the pharmaceutical industry, new product development, and compliance.

The PHARM Game, initially developed with a major pharmaceutical manufacturer, teaches players about all aspects of drug discovery and development, taking participants from basic research through Product Launch. GMPWorks teaches elements of GMP compliance as well as specific sub-parts of 21 CFR 210-211.

Normally a training product's utility would be limited to someone working in one specific area, in this case the PHARM game for discovery scientists or GMPWorks for those in manufacturing. Not so here. PHARM is a great way for those who normally don't operate in early-stage R&D to learn about these activities. Similarly, GMPWorks will benefit scientists operating mostly under GLP (Good Laboratory Practices).

But seriously, are games appropriate teaching aids? "Games are effective learning tools because they are fun and also serve a serious purpose: to facilitate active learning in a practical, painless way," says Susan Morris of The Learning Key. "In addition, games build team spirit and cooperation. When played in teams, games reduce dependence on an expert—the game and the players are the teachers. This means game play can be run with in-house staff, requiring minimal staff time."

"Employees in the pharmaceutical industry often have a limited perspective of the full complexity of the pharmaceutical business," Morris adds. "Even senior executives may only know a particular part of the business. The PHARM Game is a unique opportunity to expose employees to the big picture."

Both games are played on boards measuring about 3' by 3' and accommodate up to sixteen employees playing in teams. Each game set can be used multiple times and are designed to be played either with or without a facilitator.

According to Morris, response from customers has been enthusiastic with comments ranging from "We found some of our people playing this game on lunch break" to "We like it because we often have difficulties persuading employees to engage in one-on-one computer training programs, particularly on their own time."

Competition in the United States is virtually non-existent on the level of StrataKey products. Of the few games existing for industry use, most are developed by companies for internal use and, while sometimes offering team participation, are generally electronic games. Others, such as one developed by Sears, utilize a large playing surface, specifically a "retail" map, but rely mostly on a leader's guide and written questions and answers rather than involving teams in an actual board game experience.

StrataKey games offer customization options for specific organizational challenges, terminology, logos, and translations into Japanese and other foreign languages.

Both games are priced at $2,500 (plus shipping and handling) including game components and carrying case. Quantity discounts are offered.

Seems like a steep price for a game. However, Morris told Pharmaceutical Online that companies spend about $700 on training per year per employee, so "If we use that number, the cost of either game is $2,500 and has unlimited use for any number of employees."

For more information: Susan Morris, The Learning Key, P.O. Box 669, New Hope, PA 18938. Tel: 215-862-9425 or 800-465-7005. Fax: 215-862-9426.

By Angelo DePalma
Managing Editor, Drug Discovery Online and Pharmaceutical Online