SWOT analysis
SWOT organises strategic factors into internal strengths and weaknesses and external opportunities and threats. Its value lies in linking evidence to choices: using strengths, addressing weaknesses and responding to opportunities or threats. The categories depend on the organisation and decision. A factor should not be labelled favourable or adverse without considering its significance and the firm’s ability to respond.
Worked example
Strong service expertise is an internal strength; a growing market for that expertise is an external opportunity. The combination may support expansion if capacity and funding are feasible.
Common mistake
Do not put general external market growth under strengths or list generic points without explaining their strategic effect.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | APM | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
| ACCA | BT | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
| ACCA | SBL | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
| FIA | FBT | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |