The S.W.O.T. Analysis: WEAKNESSES

If you haven't read our post of The S.W.O.T. Analysis, you should probably read that first to get a better understanding of how and when the analysis is used, as well as how to properly construct one.  In this post we give you a basic outline of what items and bullet points of research and fact you should in include in the "Weaknesses" section of your The S.W.O.T. Analysis;
  • Disadvantages of proposition?
  • Gaps in capabilities?
  • Lack of competitive strength?
  • Reputation, presence and reach or lack there of?
  • Financials?
  • Own known vulnerabilities?
  • Unmeetable Timescales or deadlines and pressures?
  • Cashflow, start-up cash-drain?
  • Continuity of your business plan or company?
  • Supply chain robustness (Do you have access to enough supply)?
  • Effects on core activities, distraction?
  • Reliability of data?
  • How predictable is your plan (plan predictability)?
  • Morale, commitment, leadership?
  • Lack of Accreditations, Certifications, etc?
  • Processes and systems, etc?
  • Management cover, succession, one man show?
This is just a small list of things to include in the "Weaknesses" section of the Analysis.  Please remember: SWOT analysis is just one method of categorization and has its own weaknesses. For example, it may tend to persuade its users to compile lists rather than to think about what is actually important in achieving objectives. It also presents the resulting lists uncritically and without clear prioritization so that, for example, weak opportunities may appear to balance strong threats. It is prudent not to eliminate too quickly any candidate SWOT entry. The importance of individual SWOTs will be revealed by the value of the strategies it generates. A SWOT item that produces valuable strategies is important. A SWOT item that generates no strategies is not important.

Do you need assistance or consulting in writing or drafting a business plan?  NicholasCoriano.com is focused on delivering cost-effective research and analysis to our clients.  Whether you live near me in Connecticut or are a start-up in India, I have and continue to help entrepreneurs and business owners develop their S.WO.T. Analysis.  Shoot me a text or call on my cell at 203.685.0346 or send me an email at CervitudeIR@gmail.com today!