Interactive Simulator
The Bullwhip Effect
A small change in customer demand causes massive swings upstream in a supply chain. This simulator lets you see why — and what fixes it.
Step 1: Pick a retailer ordering strategyStep 2: Click "Run Simulation" and watch the chartStep 3: Try another strategy to compare
Click a role to see the bullwhip from their perspective
Simulation Rules
Duration
24 weeks
Lead Time
2 weeks
order → delivery
Holding Cost
$1/unit/wk
excess inventory
Stockout Cost
$2/unit/wk
missed sales
Starting Stock
50 units
per tier
Base Demand
~50/week
with variation
Each tier can only see orders from the tier directly below it — not actual customer demand. Orders take 2 weeks to arrive. The retailer's ordering strategy is what you control — everything upstream reacts automatically.
Pick a retailer ordering strategy
Market:
📊
Pick a strategy and run the simulation
The bullwhip effect will appear here
Built with React + Recharts