Strengths refer to what an organization does well or has an advantage over its competitors. This could be things like IT infrastructure, network efficiency, or exceptional customer service. In other words, an organization’s strengths are what drives their business and sets them apart. To be considered a strength, it must provide a business with a clear advantage.
When determining what weaknesses exist, business leaders must look at areas where improvements could be made. For example, a business that uses outdated software may experience slower production than their competitors that use new or upgraded software.
Opportunities are chances that become available to businesses that encourage growth. These opportunities usually arise outside of an organization but can make a major difference in a company’s ability to become a leader in the market. Opportunities often align with market trends which can give businesses the chance to gain an edge if they are able to keep pace.
Threats include any situation that could negatively impact a business. This can range from supply chain problems to inferior network security. When creating a list of threats, it is important for businesses to consider what obstacles they currently face in both the marketing and selling of products or services. It is also important to be aware of security issues that hackers could exploit.
During a SWOT analysis, a business looks at both the internal and external environments of a company. The internal environment is where strengths and weaknesses are identified. For example, upgrading to a new operating system or replacing outdated computer hardware. Analysis of the external environment is where opportunities and threats can be determined. For example, identifying problems with wireless communications or evaluating carrier bandwidth.
An IT SWOT analysis can be a strategic tool for achieving core business objectives. This effective planning methodology can help a business develop a strategic plan to meet their goals, enhance their brand and improve operations. This is achieved by identifying the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats that affect an IT network.
Performing a SWOT analysis can enable better strategic planning. This organized approach has the power to help businesses identify ways to improve the productivity and overall efficiency while minimizing certain threats that could prove harmful to growth. A SWOT analysis should answer several important questions, such as:
Both new and established organizations can leverage the benefits of a SWOT analysis. Businesses that are just starting out can use an IT SWOT analysis to help develop their business plan. This effective planning tool can be a useful component in creating a cohesive strategy that helps new businesses overcome challenges. For example, a new business may choose to use a VPN to control access to their network which reduces exposure.
Existing businesses may perform an IT SWOT analysis in response to a changing environment, such as when a company decides to upgrade their software or move information to the cloud. Many businesses also choose to share the results of IT SWOT analyses regularly at scheduled strategy meetings.
Building an IT SWOT analysis involves creating a two-by-two matrix that clearly defines internal factors (strengths and weaknesses) and external factors (opportunities and threats) horizontally and helpful factors (strengths and opportunities) and harmful factors (weaknesses and threats) vertically. Once the matrix has been completed, a business can analyze the results to determine whether certain products, services, objectives, projects and goals are strategically sound.
For businesses that need help with developing, planning or executing business and IT strategies, the experienced consultants at Hartman Executive Advisors are here. Request a consultation to learn more about IT SWOT analysis or to discuss other IT strategy services.