PC-Based Management Game for Irrigated Farming

Abstract

: Irrigated farming is a complex activity influenced by a large number of interacting and random factors. A sufficiently realistic gaming simulation model can be used as an effective tool for training in decision making under such a setting. This paper describes a microcomputer-based game model CASIMBOL (Computer Aided Simulation of Irrigation Management Below OutLet) that deals with the problems faced by a typical farmer in a water-deficient region in southern India. The model is built in a spreadsheet environment. Menu-driven macros are developed for automating the gaming session, with provision for selective revision of random variable values. A case-specific synthetic knowledge base is made available for consultation at selected stages during the progress of the game. The advantages, limitations and further possibilities of this model have been brought out during trial sessions involving academic and field personnel. The spreadsheet-based game model linked to a mini expert system demonstrates that this methodology can be adopted for similar situations.