ADU simulating real-world businesses in the virtual world with ultra-advanced 3D technology from Simio

US$200,000 research grant empowers College of Business Administration students to fast-track their experience by exploringreal-world scenarios virtually

UAE, Abu Dhabi, 07 November 2013: In a major breakthrough that could yieldextensive benefits for Abu Dhabi's business community, the College of Business Administration (COBA) at Abu Dhabi University has received a research grant worth US$208,500 from Simio LLC. The grant gives ADU leading-edge 3D animation and modeling software to simulate real-world business scenarios in various sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, transport, government and more.

Simiois a US-based technological pioneer with a global footprint, thus putting the College of Business and Administration on par with some of the most sophisticated business technology worldwide.

Commenting on the partnership, Dr Salam Abdallah, Associate Professor of Management Information Systems at ADU said: “Unforeseen circumstances can bring down a company, an industry or even an entire economy - because certainty is the most valuable commodity in business. Previously, entrepreneurs could only make decisions and then hope for the best. But now with Simio's ultra-advanced simulation technology, we are giving future business leaders the freedom to try out different scenarios in the virtual world to see what the outcomes would be in the real world. This way students can fine-tune their skills while avoiding costly risks,and opening up a whole new world of exciting possibilities to explore.”

The grant is expected to accelerate the experience of students, who will now quickly gain hands-on experience in various industries instead of spending many years trying out the same approaches in the real world. Simio has awarded 75 licenses to ADU to support teaching and research, and more licenses can be granted if required.

Dr Mohsin Malik, Assistant Professor of Operations Management at Abu Dhabi University's College of Business and Administration added: “Many people still believe that scientific research has no place in business, but we beg to differ. This futuristic software from Simio proves that in-depth investigation and experimentation is just as vital in business as it is in science. The difference is that now business leaders will have a “safety net” because if a certain approach fails to work in the virtual simulation, they don't have to find out the hard way in the real world. Simulations are saving countless lives in fields like aviation, and similarly they can save countless businesses.”

The immersive visual experience, modern interface and engaging animation is expected to make the learning process more intellectually stimulating for students, giving them the edge in the job market, where ADU graduates have achieved over 90% employability.