SWOT Analysis

This article briefly provides in a few pages a comprehensive guide for marketers to develop a SWOT analysis. It is important for marketers to understand their firm's position in the marketplace, and to set realistic objectives within the marketing plan, as part of the organizational strategic plan. Note that this is an exercise and it requires the input of several key individuals to provide insight and input.

What is a SWOT Analysis and Why Should You Use One?

SWOT stands for: Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, Threat. A SWOT analysis guides you to identify your organization's strengths and weaknesses (S-W), as well as broader opportunities and threats (O-T). Developing a fuller awareness of the situation helps with both strategic planning and decision-making.

The SWOT method was originally developed for business and industry, but it is equally useful in the work of community health and development, education, and even for personal growth.

SWOT is not the only assessment technique you can use. Compare it with other assessment tools in the Community Tool Box to determine if this is the right approach for your situation. The strengths of this method are its simplicity and application to a variety of levels of operation.