Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, Threat. A SWOT analysis guides you to identify the positives and negatives inside your organization (S-W) and outside of it, in the external environment (O-T). Developing a full awareness of your situation can help with both strategic planning and decision-making.
The SWOT method (which is sometimes called TOWS) was originally developed for business and industry, but it is equally useful in the work of community health and development, education, and even personal growth.
SWOT is not the only assessment technique you can use, but is one with a long track record of effectiveness.
WHEN DO YOU USE SWOT?
A SWOT analysis can offer helpful perspectives at any stage of an effort. You might use it to: * Explore possibilities for new efforts or solutions to problems. * Make decisions about the best path for your initiative. Identifying your opportunities for success in context of threats to success can clarify directions and choices. * Determine where change is possible. If you are at a juncture or turning point, an inventory of your strengths and weaknesses can reveal priorities as well as possibilities. * Adjust and refine plans mid-course. A new opportunity might open wider avenues, while a new threat could close a path that once existed.
SWOT also offers a simple way of communicating about your initiative or program and an excellent way to organize information you 've gathered from studies or surveys.
WHAT ARE THE ELEMENTS OF A SWOT ANALYSIS?
A SWOT analysis focuses on the four elements of the acronym, but the graphic format you use varies depending on the depth and complexity of your effort.
Remember that the purpose of performing a SWOT is to reveal positive forces that work together and potential problems that need to be addressed or at least recognized. INTERNAL | EXTERNAL | Strengths | Weaknesses | Opportunities | Threats | | |
Bibliography: http://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc/ttasystem/operations/Management%20and%20Administration/Planning/Program%20Planning/2SWOTAnalysisS.htm http://www.panaderiaelrosario.com/conocenos.php