Competition Format
Event structure.
Preparation
30 minBoth team members receive the case study. Divide the analysis, identify the key problem and sub-issues, and build a cohesive recommendation. You may use the printed case and scratch paper provided.
Presentation
15 minPresent your analysis and solution to the judges panel. Split delivery evenly. Use clear structure: situation overview, alternatives considered, recommended solution, and implementation steps.
Q&A
5 minJudges ask clarifying or challenge questions. Both members should be ready to answer any aspect of the case. Stay composed and defend your recommendations with data from the case.
Performance Indicators
What you'll be tested on.
Destination marketing and DMOs
Tourism distribution channels (GDS, OTAs)
Travel consumer behavior and trends
Revenue management for airlines/cruise
Sustainable tourism practices
Convention and meetings industry
How to Prepare
Preparation framework.
01
Master PI lists for your cluster + BA Core
Both members should know all relevant PIs cold. Questions from judges often test PI knowledge directly.
02
Develop a team case-cracking framework
Agree on a shared structure: problem statement → root causes → alternatives (at least 2) → recommendation → implementation → metrics for success.
03
Practice splitting the presentation evenly
Each member must speak substantially. Assign sections, but both must understand the full case, judges direct questions to either member.
04
Work through past cases
Request sample cases from your advisor or use DECA's official resources. Time the 30-min prep and 15-min presentation.
05
Study together, take the objective test seriously
The objective test score is averaged, so a weak score from one member pulls both scores down.
Sample Scenario Themes
Representative topics.
Not official DECA scenarios, representative themes based on past competitions.
Revitalizing a destination hit by negative press
Developing a post-pandemic recovery marketing plan for a tourism board
Creating a sustainable tourism strategy for an eco-destination
Advising an airline on ancillary revenue expansion
Building a meetings and incentives (MICE) sales strategy
Competition Tips
Notes from experienced competitors.
Know travel distribution: GDS (Amadeus/Sabre), OTAs (Expedia/Booking), direct channel strategy.
Sustainable tourism is increasingly tested, know the key principles and certification programs.
Be specific about target traveler segments and their booking behaviors.
Ready to prep for TTDM?
Practice exams for Hospitality · Review Hospitality + BA Core performance indicators · Roleplay framework.