SWOT analysis simply explained: steps, examples, advantages

The term, in its current definition, originatin the 1950s . This method for processing case studies was introduced at Harvard Business School in the Unit States.

Through such a companies swot-analysis-simply  can strategically position or reorient themselves . The four core characteristics transparently depict the current state of your business and provide a clear overall  simply picture. This type of strategic planning reveals strengths and weaknesses, helps with strategic decision-making, and simultaneously serves as a situational analysis .

Why should you conduct a SWOT analysis?

By combining internal and external aspects, the , in our view, provides a comprehensive view of the current situation and future development opportunities – something that is often overlook in  fax lists all the operational work.

As a strategic management tool in corporate development, it primarily serves to realistically assess one’s own potential . However, it also has other applications in marketing.

What is the goal of a SWOT analysis?

The goal of a  is to gain insights into the current state of a company and, bas on this, derive strategies and suggestions for improvement for the future . Such an analysis does not solve problems, but rather identifies   them and supports the search for solutions. It is one of the most commonly used methods in developing corporate strategies .

A SWOT matrix distinguishes check on the progrs of the document  between internal (strengths and weaknesses) and external (opportunities and threats) factors . The specific goals of every

  • Identification of all strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the company
  • Examination of whether a business model or product with its mix of the four factors can realistically survive on the market
  • Derivation of measures that give the company a strategic competitive advantage

SWOT analyses and their areas of application

SWOT analysis is often us in connection with a business idea as part of a business plan or the fundamental analysis of an organization .

The areas of application are diverse. A SWOT analysis can also be us in the following areas:

  • Individual products
  • Product lines
  • Processes
  • persons
  • Individual business areas/departments

Fill out this form to get the free template.

  • Identify strengths and weaknesses
  • Uncover opportunities and risks
  • Derive tailor-made measures for your company
  • Analyze business ideas and companies
Download now for free

Advantages and disadvantages of a SWOT analysis

The following benefits underline how important a SWOT analysis can be:

  • Clear and quick: A SWOT analysis provides a quick and structur overview of the internal and external factors that influence a company’s success.
  • Ease of implementation: The method is easy to understand and requires neither extensive expertise nor software solutions to implement. Furthermore, the SWOT analysis can be created regardless of the company or project size.
  • Strategies can be deriv: Depending on the results of the SWOT analysis, four overarching strategies can be duced. We will present these in detail later.

However, there are also some disadvantages of SWOT analysis, especially when compar to other strategic management tools, such as comprehensive potential analyses:

  • High effort: A lot of research is requir to meaningfully fill out all four dimensions of the SWOT matrix. Furthermore, it’s not business sale lead  always clear which point should be assign to which category (strength, weakness, opportunity, or threat).
  • Simple presentation: The SWOT analysis provides a rather broad overview; it doesn’t cover all the information. This can lead to important details being lost.
  • No prioritization: While a SWOT matrix identifies important factors, it doesn’t prioritize them. Therefore, without additional analysis, it’s often difficult to derive the right actions.
Scroll to Top