DECA Performance Indicators

Marketing Cluster

Comply with the spirit and intent of laws and regulations

Demonstrates understanding and adherence to laws and regulations by making ethical decisions and ensuring actions align with legal and regulatory standards.

Discuss the nature of law and sources of law in the United States

The nature of law in the United States is to maintain order and protect rights, with its sources including the Constitution, statutes, administrative regulations, and court decisions.

Describe the United States' judicial system

The United States' judicial system is a dual court system consisting of federal and state courts, where judges interpret and apply laws through a structured process of trials and appeals to ensure justice and uphold the Constitution.

Describe methods used to protect intellectual property

Methods used to protect intellectual property include copyrights for creative works, patents for inventions, trademarks for brand identifiers, and trade secrets for confidential business information.

Describe legal issues affecting businesses

Legal issues affecting businesses include contracts, employment law, intellectual property rights, consumer protection, environmental regulations, and compliance with local, state, and federal laws.

Identify the basic torts relating to business enterprises

Basic torts relating to business enterprises include negligence, fraud, defamation, interference with contractual relations, and trespass to property.

Describe the nature of legally binding contracts

Legally binding contracts are agreements between two or more parties that create enforceable obligations, requiring an offer, acceptance, consideration, mutual intent, and legal capacity.

Describe the nature of legal procedure

The nature of legal procedure involves the rules and processes that govern how legal cases are initiated, conducted, and resolved in the court system to ensure fairness and justice.

Discuss the nature of debtor-creditor relationships

The nature of debtor-creditor relationships involves a legal and financial agreement where the debtor owes a debt or obligation to the creditor, who has the right to collect payment or enforce terms under the agreement.

Explain the nature of agency relationships

The nature of agency relationships involves a legal connection where one party (the agent) is authorized to act on behalf of another party (the principal) to create legal obligations or conduct business.

Discuss the nature of environmental law

Environmental law is a set of regulations and policies designed to protect natural resources, control pollution, and ensure sustainable development by governing how individuals and businesses interact with the environment.

Discuss the role of administrative law

Administrative law governs the actions and operations of government agencies, ensuring they follow legal procedures, make fair decisions, and implement laws effectively.

Explain types of business ownership

Types of business ownership include sole proprietorships, where one individual owns and operates the business; partnerships, where two or more people share ownership and responsibilities; corporations, which are separate legal entities owned by shareholders offering limited liability; and limited liability companies (LLCs), which combine the liability protection of a corporation with the tax benefits and flexibility of a partnership.

Explain the nature of import/export law

Import/export law governs the regulations and procedures that control the movement of goods across international borders, ensuring compliance with customs, tariffs, trade agreements, and safety standards to facilitate legal and efficient global trade.

Describe the nature of customs regulations

Customs regulations are rules established by governments to control the import and export of goods, including the assessment of duties and taxes, enforcement of trade restrictions, and protection of national security and public health.

Identify sources that provide relevant, valid written material

Sources that provide relevant, valid written material include academic journals, government publications, reputable books, trusted news outlets, and official organizational reports.

Extract relevant information from written materials

To extract relevant information from written materials, carefully read the content, identify key ideas and facts related to your purpose, summarize important points, and disregard unrelated or redundant details.

Apply written directions to achieve tasks

To apply written directions to achieve tasks, carefully read and understand each step, follow the instructions in the correct order, and verify your progress to ensure the task is completed accurately.

Analyze company resources to ascertain policies and procedures

To analyze company resources to ascertain policies and procedures, review documents such as employee handbooks, official manuals, internal memos, and company websites to identify guidelines, rules, and standard operating practices.

Identify company's brand promise

A company's brand promise is a clear, concise statement that communicates what customers can consistently expect from its products or services.

Determine ways of reinforcing the company's image through employee performance

Reinforce the company's image by training employees to consistently embody brand values in their communication, appearance, and customer interactions.

Discuss the nature of customer relationship management

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) is the strategic process of managing a company's interactions with current and potential customers by using data, technology, and personalized communication to improve customer satisfaction, loyalty, and long-term profitability.

Explain the role of ethics in customer relationship management

Ethics in customer relationship management plays a crucial role by ensuring that businesses handle customer data responsibly, communicate honestly, respect privacy, and build trust through fair and transparent practices that foster long-term, loyal relationships.

Describe the use of technology in customer relationship management

Technology in customer relationship management is used to collect, store, analyze, and manage customer data through CRM software, enabling businesses to personalize interactions, automate marketing and support tasks, track customer behavior, and enhance overall customer experience and retention.

Distinguish between economic goods and services

Economic goods are tangible items that satisfy wants and can be stored or owned, such as clothing or electronics, while economic services are intangible activities provided to satisfy needs or wants, like haircuts or financial consulting.

Explain the concept of economic resources

Economic resources are the inputs used to produce goods and services and satisfy human wants. They are typically categorized into four types: land (natural resources), labor (human effort), capital (tools and machinery), and entrepreneurship (the ability to organize and manage the other resources).

Describe the concepts of economics and economic activities

Economics is the study of how individuals, businesses, and governments make choices about using limited resources to satisfy unlimited wants and needs. Economic activities are the actions related to producing, distributing, and consuming goods and services, such as manufacturing, buying, selling, and providing services.

Determine economic utilities created by business activities

Business activities create economic utilities by adding value to products and services in several ways. They create form utility by transforming raw materials into finished goods, place utility by making products available where customers need them, and time utility by ensuring products are available when needed. Additionally, they provide possession utility by facilitating the purchase process and information utility by giving consumers the information they need to make informed buying decisions.

Explain the principles of supply and demand

Demand refers to the quantity of a product consumers are willing to buy at various prices, while supply is the quantity producers are willing to sell. When demand increases and supply stays the same, prices tend to rise; when supply increases and demand stays the same, prices tend to fall. The point where supply and demand meet is called the equilibrium price.

Describe the functions of prices in markets

Prices have several important functions. Firstly, the price in a way reflects the quality of the product. Higher prices usually indicate more luxurious items. They also serve as incentives, because they encourage producers to supply more when prices are high and encourage consumers to buy more when prices are low.

Explain the role of business in society

The role of business in society is to produce goods and services that meet the needs and wants of consumers, while also creating jobs and contributing to economic growth. Businesses drive innovation, pay taxes that fund public services, and support communities through social responsibility and ethical practices.

Describe types of business activities

Business activities can be split up into 3 main groups, production, marketing and finance. Production – Creating goods or services, such as manufacturing products or offering services. Marketing – Promoting and selling products or services, including advertising, pricing, and distribution. Finance – Managing money, including budgeting, investing, and securing funds to run the business.

Describe types of business models

Business models explain how companies create and deliver value to customers. Common types include manufacturing, where goods are produced; retail, where products are bought and sold directly to consumers; subscription, which charges recurring fees for ongoing access; freemium, offering free basic services with paid upgrades; and marketplace models that connect buyers and sellers while earning commissions.

Explain the organizational design of businesses

Organizational design refers to how a business structures its roles, responsibilities, and communication to achieve its goals effectively. It defines the hierarchy, division of labor, and coordination methods, helping ensure that tasks are completed efficiently and employees work together smoothly.

Discuss the global environment in which businesses operate

Businesses operate in a global environment shaped by international trade, diverse cultures, economic policies, and technological advancements. This environment offers opportunities like new markets and resources but also presents challenges such as competition, regulatory differences, and political risks. Understanding and adapting to this global context is crucial for business success.

Describe factors that affect the business environment

Several factors affect the business environment, including economic conditions (like inflation and unemployment), political and legal factors (such as regulations and government policies), social and cultural influences (like consumer preferences and demographics), technological changes (which can create new opportunities or threats), and environmental factors (such as sustainability and resource availability). These factors shape how businesses operate and compete.

Explain the nature of business ethics

Business ethics refers to the principles and standards that guide the behavior of individuals and organizations in the business world. It involves doing what is right, fair, and just in dealings with customers, employees, suppliers, and the community, ensuring honesty, integrity, and social responsibility.

Explain how organizations adapt to today's markets

Organizations adapt to today’s markets by embracing technology, staying flexible, and continuously innovating to meet changing customer needs. They also focus on understanding market trends, improving customer experience, and responding quickly to competition and global challenges.

Explain the types of economic systems

There are three main types of economic systems: traditional, where decisions are based on customs and traditions; command, where the government controls resources and production; and market, where supply and demand determine what is produced and sold. Some countries use a mixed economy, combining elements of both command and market systems.

Identify the impact of small business/entrepreneurship on market economies

Small businesses and entrepreneurship drive market economies by creating jobs, fostering innovation, and increasing competition. They help diversify the economy, meet local needs, and contribute to economic growth and wealth distribution.

Explain the concept of private enterprise

Private enterprise is a system where individuals or businesses own and operate companies independently, making decisions about production and profit without direct government control. It encourages competition, innovation, and the pursuit of profit in a free market.

Identify factors affecting a business's profit

Factors affecting a business’s profit include cost of production (like materials and labor), sales volume, pricing strategies, market demand, competition, and operational efficiency. External factors like economic conditions, taxes, and regulations also impact profitability.

Determine factors affecting business risk

Factors affecting business risk include market competition, economic fluctuations, changes in consumer preferences, legal and regulatory changes, financial instability, and operational challenges like supply chain disruptions. Internal factors like management decisions and technology also influence risk levels.

Explain the concept of competition

Competition is the rivalry between businesses striving to attract customers, increase sales, and gain market share by offering better products, prices, or services. It encourages innovation, improves quality, and helps keep prices fair in the marketplace.

Determine the relationship between government and business

The relationship between government and business is interactive and regulatory: governments create laws and policies that regulate business activities to protect consumers, promote fair competition, and ensure economic stability, while businesses contribute to the economy by creating jobs, paying taxes, and driving growth. Both rely on each other for a healthy and functioning market system.

Describe the nature of taxes

Taxes are mandatory financial charges imposed by governments on individuals and businesses to fund public services and infrastructure. They are essential for government operations and can take various forms, such as income tax, sales tax, and property tax.

Explain the concept of productivity

Productivity is the measure of how efficiently resources are used to produce goods and services. It is typically calculated by comparing the output produced to the input used, helping businesses assess performance and improve operations.

Analyze impact of specialization/division of labor on productivity

Specialization and division of labor increase productivity by allowing workers to focus on specific tasks, improving their skill and efficiency. This leads to faster production, higher output, and often better quality, as each worker becomes an expert in their role.

Explain the concept of organized labor and business

Organized labor refers to workers joining together in unions to collectively negotiate wages, benefits, and working conditions. Organized business involves companies working through associations or groups to advocate for their interests, set industry standards, and improve efficiency and competitiveness.

Explain the impact of the law of diminishing returns

The law of diminishing returns states that as more units of a variable input (like labor) are added to a fixed input (like machinery or land), the additional output produced from each new unit will eventually decrease. This impacts productivity by showing that beyond a certain point, adding more resources leads to lower efficiency and higher costs.

Discuss the measure of consumer spending as an economic indicator

Consumer spending is a key economic indicator that measures the total value of goods and services purchased by households. It reflects consumer confidence and demand, and since it makes up a large portion of GDP, rising consumer spending typically signals economic growth, while a decline may indicate a slowdown or recession.

Describe the economic impact of inflation on business

Inflation increases the cost of raw materials, wages, and other inputs, which can reduce business profit margins if prices can't be raised accordingly. It also creates uncertainty, making it harder for businesses to plan, invest, and maintain stable pricing, potentially slowing growth and reducing consumer purchasing power.

Explain the concept of Gross Domestic Product

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is the total monetary value of all final goods and services produced within a country's borders in a specific time period. It is a key indicator used to measure a nation's economic performance and overall economic health.

Discuss the impact of a nation's unemployment rates

High unemployment rates can lead to decreased consumer spending, lower overall economic growth, and increased government spending on social services. Conversely, low unemployment typically boosts consumer confidence and spending, but can also lead to labor shortages and wage inflation.

Explain the economic impact of interest-rate fluctuations

Interest-rate fluctuations impact borrowing and spending in the economy. When interest rates rise, borrowing becomes more expensive, often reducing consumer spending and business investment; when rates fall, borrowing is cheaper, which can stimulate economic growth by encouraging spending and investment.

Determine the impact of business cycles on business activities

Business cycles, which include periods of expansion and contraction in the economy, significantly affect business activities. During expansions, businesses often see increased sales, profits, and investment opportunities, while during contractions or recessions, they may face lower demand, reduced revenue, layoffs, and cutbacks in spending.

Explain the nature of global trade

Global trade involves the exchange of goods and services across international borders, allowing countries to specialize in producing what they do best. It promotes economic growth, increases market access, and encourages competition, but can also lead to challenges like trade imbalances and dependency on other nations.

Discuss the impact of globalization on business

Globalization expands business opportunities by opening access to international markets, diverse resources, and talent, enabling companies to grow and innovate. However, it also increases competition, exposes businesses to global economic fluctuations, and requires adapting to different cultures, regulations, and trade policies.

Describe the determinants of exchange rates and their effects on the domestic economy

Exchange rates are determined by factors such as interest rates, inflation, political stability, and supply and demand for currencies. Fluctuations affect the domestic economy by influencing export competitiveness, import costs, inflation, and foreign investment—where a weaker domestic currency can boost exports but raise import prices, while a stronger currency can have the opposite effects.

Explain cultural considerations that impact global business relations

Cultural considerations such as language, customs, communication styles, and business etiquette impact global business relations by affecting trust, negotiation, and collaboration. Understanding and respecting these differences helps build stronger partnerships, avoid misunderstandings, and improve overall effectiveness in international markets.

Discuss the impact of cultural and social environments on global trade

Cultural and social environments influence global trade by shaping consumer preferences, buying behaviors, and business practices. Differences in language, values, traditions, and social norms can create challenges or opportunities for companies entering foreign markets, requiring adaptation to local cultures to succeed and build trust.

Describe the impact of electronic communication tools (e.g., Internet, video- and computerconferencing, webcasts, email) on global business activities

Electronic communication tools like the Internet, video conferencing, webcasts, and email have transformed global business by enabling faster, cost-effective, and real-time communication across borders. They enhance collaboration, improve decision-making, expand market reach, and reduce the need for travel, making international operations more efficient and connected.

Explain the impact of major trade alliances on business activities

Major trade alliances, such as NAFTA or the European Union, reduce trade barriers like tariffs and quotas between member countries, making it easier and cheaper for businesses to export and import goods. This increases market access, encourages investment, and fosters competition, helping businesses grow and operate more efficiently across borders.

Describe the impact of the political environment on world trade

The political environment affects world trade through government policies, stability, and regulations. Political stability and favorable trade agreements encourage international business, while conflicts, tariffs, sanctions, or changes in leadership can create uncertainty, restrict trade, and increase costs for businesses operating globally.

Explain the impact of geography on world trade

Geography impacts world trade by influencing transportation costs, access to markets, and availability of natural resources. Countries with favorable locations, such as coastal ports or proximity to major trade routes, tend to have advantages in trade efficiency and competitiveness, while remote or landlocked nations may face higher costs and logistical challenges.

Describe the impact of a country's history on world trade

A country's history shapes its world trade by influencing its economic development, trade relationships, and reputation. Historical factors like colonization, past conflicts, or longstanding alliances can affect trust, market access, and trade policies, either opening opportunities or creating barriers in the global marketplace.

Explain the impact of a country's economic development on world trade

A country’s level of economic development impacts world trade by determining its production capacity, quality of goods, and demand for imports. Developed economies often export high-value products and technology, while developing countries may focus on raw materials or low-cost manufacturing, shaping trade patterns and partnerships globally.

Discuss the impact of bribery and foreign monetary payments on business (

Bribery and foreign monetary payments can distort fair business practices by creating unethical advantages, increasing costs, and exposing companies to legal risks and reputational damage. They can also lead to unstable business environments, reduce investor confidence, and hinder sustainable economic growth.

Identify requirements for international business travel

Requirements for international business travel typically include a valid passport, the appropriate visa for the destination country, proof of citizenship, any required immunizations or health certificates, and sometimes sponsorship or invitation letters from the host organization or government.