SWOT Analysis
Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) Analysis is a strategic planning tool used to assess an organization’s internal and external factors.
• Strengths: Internal capabilities that give an advantage.
• Weaknesses: Areas requiring improvement.
• Opportunities: External factors that could provide growth.
• Threats: External risks that could impact business operations.
Example: A retail company uses SWOT to identify its strong online presence (Strength), high operational costs (Weakness), growing e-commerce market (Opportunity), and economic downturn risks (Threat).
PESTLE Analysis
This framework examines external macro-environmental factors:
• Political (e.g., government policies, trade regulations)
• Economic (e.g., inflation, market trends)
• Social (e.g., consumer behavior, demographics)
• Technological (e.g., innovation, automation)
• Legal (e.g., compliance, labor laws)
• Environmental (e.g., sustainability, climate impact)
MOST Analysis
This technique ensures business alignment with strategic goals:
• Mission: The overall purpose of the organization.
• Objectives: Measurable targets to achieve the mission.
• Strategy: Plans to meet objectives.
• Tactics: Specific actions to implement the strategy.
Business Model Canvas
A visual framework that outlines key elements of a business:
• Customer Segments
• Value Proposition
• Channels
• Customer Relationships
• Revenue Streams
• Key Activities
• Key Resources
• Key Partnerships
• Cost Structure
Value Chain Analysis
This tool examines business activities to identify value creation opportunities, focusing on primary (operations, marketing, sales) and support activities (HR, IT, procurement).