SWOT analysis is a strategic planning method used to evaluate the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats involved in a project or in a business venture. It involves specifying the objective of the business venture or project and identifying the internal and external factors that are favorable and unfavorable to achieve that objective. The technique is credited to Albert Humphrey, who led a convention at Stanford University in the 1960s and 1970s using data from Fortune 500 companies.

A SWOT analysis must first start with defining a desired end state or objective. A SWOT analysis may be incorporated into the strategic planning model. Strategic Planning, has been the subject of much research.

1. Strengths: characteristics of the business or team that give it an advantage over others in the industry.
2. Weaknesses: are characteristics that place the firm at a disadvantage relative to others.
3. Opportunities: external chances to make greater sales or profits in the environment.
4. Threats: external elements in the environment that could cause trouble for the business.

1. You must start with your Vision, Mission and Values statement.
2. You must objectively prepare your businesses internal and external status.
3. You must be realistic and forthright in preparing the businesses and your strengths and weaknesses
4. Be specific but keep it short and simple, don’t over analyze.
5. Developing strategies and tactics that match the SWOT analysis results.
6. Writing an operating plan based on your SWOT Analysis, strategies and tactics.
7. Implementation of a resulting operating plan.

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