Competition Format
Event structure.
Preparation
10 minYou receive a printed scenario card describing a business situation. Read carefully, identify the core problem, and outline your recommended approach. No outside materials allowed.
Role-Play with Judge
Up to 10 minThe judge acts as a business professional (customer, manager, or owner). You present your analysis and recommendations, field questions, and demonstrate your grasp of relevant performance indicators.
Transition / Wrap-Up
Included in 10 minConclude with a clear summary of your recommendations. The judge may ask 1–2 follow-up questions before scoring your role-play.
Performance Indicators
What you'll be tested on.
Revenue management (ADR, occupancy, RevPAR)
Guest experience and service recovery
Front office and housekeeping operations
Hotel marketing and distribution channels (OTA, direct)
Labor scheduling and cost control
Crisis management and safety
How to Prepare
Preparation framework.
01
Master the Performance Indicators
Download the PI list for your cluster and BA Core from deca.org. Learn the definition of each PI and be able to apply it in a business scenario.
02
Build a scenario framework
Use a consistent opening structure: re-state the situation, state your recommendation, explain the reasoning, address any concerns. Practice until it's automatic.
03
Practice with sample scenarios
DECA posts sample role-plays on deca.org. Time yourself. Film your practice. Review your vocabulary and professionalism.
04
Take practice exams
Use the Practice Exams on this hub. Focus on missed questions and trace each one back to a specific PI.
05
Compete in chapter/district competitions
Nothing replaces reps. Use every qualifier to refine your scenario approach and test comfort under pressure.
Sample Scenario Themes
Representative topics.
Not official DECA scenarios, representative themes based on past competitions.
Addressing a wave of negative online reviews
Developing a loyalty program for repeat guests
Managing overbooking during peak season
Reducing labor costs without sacrificing service
Launching a corporate accounts sales strategy
Responding to a maintenance emergency during high occupancy
Competition Tips
Notes from experienced competitors.
Know the key hotel KPIs: ADR, RevPAR, GOPPAR, and occupancy rate.
Understand distribution: OTAs (Booking.com, Expedia) vs. direct booking and rate parity.
Scenarios often involve balancing cost-cutting with guest satisfaction, be specific in your approach.
Ready to prep for HLM?
Practice exams for Hospitality · Review Hospitality + BA Core performance indicators · Roleplay framework.