A SWOT analysis is a planning tool which seeks to identify the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats involved in a project or organisation. It's a framework for matching an organisation's goals, programmes and capacities to the environment in which it operates.
This factsheet examines the four elements of SWOT and the process of conducting an analysis. It provides tips for conducting the analysis and a ready-to-use SWOT analysis template. The factsheet concludes by looking at scenarios when a SWOT analysis is most appropriate, as well as its advantages and disadvantages.
Carrying out a SWOT analysis
This factsheet was last updated by Susannah Haan, Senior Corporate Governance Adviser, CIPD
Susannah leads CIPD’s work on corporate governance and responsible business, including the role of HR in ESG, workforce reporting, leadership development and the role of non-executive directors.
CIPD Trust
Tackling barriers to work today whilst creating inclusive workplaces of tomorrow.
Bullying
and harassment
Discover our practice guidance and recommendations to tackle bullying and harassment in the workplace.
Related content
Discover what PESTLE means, how it influences your organisation, plus a downloadable template
Explores the purpose and evolution of job design, its role in creating good work, and assessing job quality.
Explores what organisation development is and how it's carried out in today’s organisations
Episode 195: At the crest of change, explore how business leaders and people professionals should prepare their organisations to maximise the opportunities presented by ChatGPT and artificial intelligence technologies
Learn what modern slavery is, as well as HR's role in preventing and tackling it
Learn about the UK law surrounding workplace pensions and how to choose new schemes or review existing pension arrangements
Explores the benefits of flexible working, the types of arrangements commonly used and gives practical tips on implementing flexible working practices
Discover what PESTLE means, how it influences your organisation, plus a downloadable template