SWOT Analysis Framework

A strategic planning tool to evaluate Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.

Framework Overview

SWOT analysis provides a structured method to assess internal capabilities and external factors affecting business success.

Analysis Components

Strengths (Internal, Positive)

Core competencies
Unique resources
Competitive advantages
Strong brand/reputation
Skilled workforce
Proprietary technology

Weaknesses (Internal, Negative)

Resource limitations
Skill gaps
Process inefficiencies
Technology debt
Market position weaknesses
Financial constraints

Opportunities (External, Positive)

Market growth
Emerging technologies
Regulatory changes
Partnership possibilities
Unmet customer needs
Geographic expansion

Threats (External, Negative)

New competitors
Market shifts
Economic downturns
Regulatory risks
Technology disruption
Supply chain issues

Implementation Process

1. Preparation

Define scope and objectives
Assemble diverse team
Gather relevant data
Set analysis timeframe

2. Brainstorming

Individual idea generation
Group discussion
Categorization of factors
Prioritization exercise

3. Analysis

Cross-impact analysis (SO, ST, WO, WT strategies)
Weight and rate factors
Identify critical success factors
Develop strategic options

4. Strategy Development

SO Strategies (Strength-Opportunity)

Leverage strengths to capture opportunities

WO Strategies (Weakness-Opportunity)

Overcome weaknesses to pursue opportunities

ST Strategies (Strength-Threat)

Use strengths to mitigate threats

WT Strategies (Weakness-Threat)

Defensive strategies to minimize risks

Best Practices

Be specific and factual
Focus on critical factors
Consider multiple perspectives
Update regularly
Link to action plans
Quantify when possible

Output Template

SWOT Matrix

Internal	External
Strengths	Opportunities
• List items	• List items
Weaknesses	Threats
• List items	• List items

Strategic Actions

Priority initiatives
Resource allocation
Timeline and milestones
Success metrics