This simulation will let you explore the key concepts of Throughput$-$rate $($average number of units processed ina unit of time$),$ Cycle$-$Time $($average time between completion of successive units$),$ Flow$-$Time $($called Throughput$-$Time in this simulation, average time a unit spends in the system$),$ Capacity Utilization $($average output relative to maximum possible output$)$ and Work$-$In$-$Process $($average number of units in the system$)$ and the relationship among them. In the simulation, you will play the role of a car$-$wash operations manager. Your task is to allocate a budget of $$3$M to the different stations in the process in a way that maximizes process efficiency and profitability.

The simulation has two parts $($challenges$).$ Both assume that the system is loaded at the beginning of the day $($i$.$e$.,$ it does not start empty$).$ Your aim is to maximize profit over an $8-$hour day by eliminating process bottlenecks.

Challenge $1$No Variation$.$ The capacity of the $3$ workstations is fixed.

Challenge $2$Variation$.$ You get to determine the $($mode$)$ capacity of the $3$ workstations but those vary over time.

Important: Please carefully review the How$-$To$-$Play Instructions provided in the simulation.

Your objective:

Challenge $1$No Variation$-$ achieve a profit of $$825.$

Challenge $2$Variation$-$ achieve a profit of at least $$665.$