Design elements - SWOT and TOWS analysis matrices

"SWOT analysis is a classic strategic planning tool. Using a framework of internal strengths and weaknesses and external opportunities and threats, it provides a simple way to assess how a strategy can best be implemented. The tool helps planners be realistic about what they can achieve, and where they should focus. ...
The SWOT framework - a two-by-two matrix - is best completed in a group with key members of the team or organisation present. First it is important to be clear what the policy change objective is, and what team or organisation the analysis is being carried out on. Once these are clarified and agreed, begin with a brainstorm of ideas, and then hone them down and clarify them afterwards in discussion.
An assessment of internal capacity helps identify where the project or organisation is now: the existing resources that can be used immediately and current problems that won't go away. It can help identify where new resources, skills or allies will be needed. When thinking of strengths it is useful to think of real examples of success to ground and clarify the conversation. ...
An assessment of the external environment tends to focus on what is going on outside the organisation, or areas which are not yet affecting the strategy but could do - either positively or negatively." [odi.org.uk/ publications/ 5876-swot-analysis-context-mapping]
The vector stencils library "SWOT" contains 16 SWOT and TOWS matrix diagram templates for the ConceptDraw PRO diagramming and vector drawing software.
The example "Design elements - SWOT and TOWS analysis matrices" is included in the SWOT Analysis solution from the Management area of ConceptDraw Solution Park.

"SWOT is a handy mnemonic to help corporate planners think about strategy. It stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. What are an organisation's SWOTs? How can it manage them in a way that will optimise its performance? A second four-letter acronym is sometimes brought into play here: USED. How can the Strengths be Used; the Weaknesses be Stopped, the Opportunities be Exploited; and the Threats be Defended against? ...
A SWOT analysis can be applied to different aspects of a company's business, such as its it capability or its skills. The simplicity and intuitive wholeness of the framework have helped to make it extremely popular with both corporations and governments." [economist.com/ node/ 14301503]
This form template "New business opportunity SWOT analysis matrix" for the ConceptDraw PRO diagramming and vector drawing software is included in the SWOT Analysis solution from the Management area of ConceptDraw Solution Park.

"The TOWS matrix ... serves as a conceptual framework for future research about the combination of external factors and those internal to the enterprise, and the strategies based on these variables.
Equally important, the matrix 'forces' practicing managers to analyze the situation of their company and to develop
strategies, tactics, and actions for the effective and efficient attainment of its organizational objectives and its mission." [usfca.edu/ fac_ staff/ weihrichh/ docs/ tows.pdf]
This TOWS analysis matrix diagram template for the ConceptDraw PRO diagramming and vector drawing software is included in the SWOT Analysis solution from the Management area of ConceptDraw Solution Park.