What Is a SWOT Analysis?

Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats — a 30-minute strategic check-up.

Definition and examples

SWOT analysis is a strategic planning method that lists a business's internal Strengths and Weaknesses alongside external Opportunities and Threats. The output is used to inform a strategy or major decision — not as a standalone deliverable.

Pre-launch SWOT for a new product line.
Annual planning SWOT for a department.
Pre-acquisition SWOT for a target company.

Frequently asked questions

When should I run a SWOT?

Before any major decision: launch, expansion, fundraise, pivot, restructure.

Is SWOT enough by itself?

No — it's an input. Pair with quantitative analysis and a clear set of strategic choices.