Problemsolving Technique 8: SWOT-Analysis

The SWOT analysis and its advantages

Mika Lembrecht
Tuesday, November 12, 2024

A proven technique for assessing the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of a situation or organization is the SWOT analysis. This method is often used in strategic planning and decision-making to obtain a comprehensive picture of the internal and external factors that can influence the success or failure of a project or organisation.

The four elements of the SWOT analysis

Strengths

Definition: Strengths are the positive internal attributes and resources of an organisation or project. These aspects provide a competitive advantage and contribute significantly to achieving objectives.
Examples: An experienced and qualified team, strong brand awareness, innovative products, efficient processes.
Benefit: Identifying strengths helps to use and further develop them in a targeted manner to advance the organisation or project.

2. Weaknesses

Definition: Weaknesses are the internal negative aspects that hinder success or limit the organisation's performance.
Examples: Lack of resources, inefficient processes, lack of expertise, poor infrastructure.
Use: By identifying weaknesses, targeted measures can be taken to eliminate or minimise them, which improves overall performance.

3. Opportunities:

Definition: Opportunities are external factors or developments that have the potential to have a positive influence on the organisation or project.
Examples: Market trends, technological advances, regulatory changes, strategic partnerships.
Use: Identifying opportunities makes it possible to develop strategic plans to take advantage of them and promote growth.

4. Threats

Definition: Threats are external factors or developments that have the potential to negatively impact the organisation or project. These can hinder progress, reduce market share, or create operational challenges.
Examples: Economic downturns, increasing competition, changes in regulations, negative public perception or reputational risks.
Use: Identifying threats enables organisations to develop contingency plans and risk mitigation strategies to reduce their impact and maintain stability.

Advantages of SWOT analysis

A key advantage of SWOT analysis is its simplicity and versatility. It does not require any special tools or extensive training, making it easy to apply in any organisation. The method provides a structured way to analyse both internal and external factors and understand how they interact.

Promoting problem solving

This analysis is a key contributor to problem solving by providing a comprehensive assessment of the current situation. By systematically analysing strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, teams can make informed decisions and develop strategic actions that specifically address the identified challenges and opportunities. This leads to more effective and sustainable solutions.

Why is SWOT analysis so effective?

SWOT analysis provides a clear and structured method for evaluating factors that can influence success or failure. It promotes collaboration and systematic thinking within a team, as all members can contribute their perspectives and insights. By combining internal and external analyses, SWOT analysis enables a holistic view that leads to more comprehensive and well-founded strategies.

Workshop

From 25.03-27.03 2025, a workshop organised by us will take place on the topic of successfully solving complex problems. Join us and expand your knowledge.