Competition Format
Event structure.
Portfolio Submission
Before competitionSubmit a complete integrated marketing campaign portfolio including market research, target audience analysis, creative strategy, media plan, and projected outcomes.
Oral Presentation
Up to 15 minPresent your campaign strategy to the judges as if pitching to a client. Highlight the big idea, channel strategy, and expected ROI.
Objective Test
Self-paced onlineA separate objective test covering Marketing and BA Core performance indicators is taken prior to the event.
Performance Indicators
What you'll be tested on.
Services marketing (intangibility challenges)
Trust-building and reputation management
Word-of-mouth and referral marketing
Content marketing for services
Customer journey mapping
How to Prepare
Preparation framework.
01
Read DECA's official guidelines thoroughly
Each written event has a specific format outlined in the DECA Guide. Page limits, required sections, and formatting standards must be followed exactly.
02
Choose a meaningful, real-world topic
Judges reward authentic research with measurable data. Choose a topic you can actually research and document well.
03
Start the written entry early
Plan for multiple drafts. Have your advisor and peers review it. Written entries are scored before you arrive, they determine whether you advance.
04
Prepare a tight 10-minute pitch
The presentation is your highlight reel. Practice a structured opening, a concise walk-through of key findings, and a strong close.
05
Anticipate Q&A deep dives
Judges will probe your data sources, methodology, and assumptions. Know every number in your entry and why you made each decision.
Competition Tips
Notes from experienced competitors.
Address the intangibility challenge directly, how do you make an invisible service tangible in your campaign?
Customer testimonials and social proof are especially powerful in service marketing.
Ready to prep for IMCS?
Practice exams for Marketing · Review Marketing + BA Core performance indicators · Roleplay framework.