Manual
Basics
Basics
What is the Appendix?
This section at the end of the manual contains extra materials like charts or surveys.
Innovation
A new or creative idea that improves the project’s originality.
SWOT Analysis
Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats
Presentation Time Limit
The maximum amount of time allowed to present the manual (usually 15 minutes, including Q&A).
What is a Prepared Event?
A competition event prepared ahead of time, like a manual.
What is the Page Limit?
Going past this results in penalty points for written events.
Feasibility
How realistic and achievable the project is based on resources and planning.
Target Market
a particular group of consumers at which a product or service is aimed
Penalty Points
Points taken off for breaking DECA rules (like incorrect formatting, late submission, or missing pages).
What is an Individual Series Event?
A competition where one student competes individually.
What is the Table of Contents?
A list of sections and page numbers at the beginning of the manual.
Sustainability
The project’s ability to last long-term and continue creating value.
Competitive Advantage
a condition or circumstance that puts a company in a favorable or superior business position
Judge’s Questions
Questions asked by judges after the presentation to test the competitor’s knowledge of their manual.
What are the Event Guidelines?
The official set of rules and directions for every DECA event.
What is the Executive Summary?
This short section gives an overview of the entire manual.
Return on Investment (ROI)
The benefit or profit gained compared to the costs of the project.
Market Analysis
Market analysis is the process of thoroughly examining a specific market to understand its size, customers, trends, and competitors to determine the viability and potential success of a business or product idea.
Written Evaluation Form
The score sheet judges use to grade the written manual on content, organization, and creativity.
Performance Indicators
Specific skills or concepts judges look for in roleplays, manuals, and exams to evaluate performance.
What are the Written Entry Guidelines?
The official rules that outline format, page limits, and required sections.
Implementation Plan
The step-by-step strategy of how the project will be carried out in real life.
Financial Projections
estimated financial outcomes over a specific period, typically one to five years
International Career Development Conference (ICDC)
DECA’s international competition where top members present their projects and compete globally.
What is a Cluster Exam?
A multiple-choice test based on your event’s career cluster.