SWOT-Gap Matrix

The SWOT-Gap Matrix is a strategic planning tool that combines SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) with gap analysis to identify and bridge gaps between current and desired performance levels. It helps businesses align their internal capabilities with external opportunities and threats, facilitating informed decision-making and strategic planning.

At a very high level, the SWOT-Gap Matrix is used in the context of business, strategy, analysis.

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What is the SWOT-Gap Matrix?

A visual explanation is shown in the image above. The SWOT-Gap Matrix can be described as a matrix with the following quadrants:

  1. Strengths: Internal attributes that give the organization an advantage. Example: 'Strong brand reputation.'
  2. Opportunities: External factors the organization can exploit. Example: 'Emerging market trends.'
  3. Weaknesses: Internal attributes that place the organization at a disadvantage. Example: 'Limited financial resources.'
  4. Threats: External factors that could cause trouble for the organization. Example: 'Increasing competition.'

What is the purpose of the SWOT-Gap Matrix?

The SWOT-Gap Matrix is a powerful tool used in strategic planning and business analysis. By integrating SWOT analysis with gap analysis, it provides a comprehensive view of an organization's internal and external environment. The matrix is divided into four quadrants:

  • Strengths: Internal attributes that give the organization an advantage over others.
  • Weaknesses: Internal attributes that place the organization at a disadvantage relative to others.
  • Opportunities: External factors that the organization can exploit to its advantage.
  • Threats: External factors that could cause trouble for the organization.

Gap analysis is then applied to identify the gaps between the current state and the desired future state in each quadrant. This helps in formulating strategies to leverage strengths, mitigate weaknesses, capitalize on opportunities, and counteract threats. For example, a company might identify a strength in its innovative product line but recognize a gap in market penetration. The SWOT-Gap Matrix would help the company develop strategies to bridge this gap, such as increasing marketing efforts or forming strategic partnerships.

Use cases for the SWOT-Gap Matrix include strategic planning, competitive analysis, market entry strategies, and performance improvement initiatives. By providing a structured approach to analyzing both internal and external factors, the matrix helps organizations make informed decisions and develop actionable strategies for growth and improvement.


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What templates are related to SWOT-Gap Matrix?

The following templates can also be categorized as business, strategy, analysis and are therefore related to SWOT-Gap Matrix: Product-Market Matrix, 4 Ps Marketing Mix Matrix, AI Capability-Value Proposition Alignment Matrix, AI Innovation-Value Alignment Matrix, AI Maturity Matrix, AI-Value Proposition Alignment Matrix, AI-Value Proposition Matrix, AIDA Marketing Matrix. You can browse them using the menu above.

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