Welcome to this 20-minute online module, designed to introduce the management diagnostic tool known as a SWOT Analysis. This methodology is useful for managers in the UK screen sector, as it provides a structured mechanism for analysing a business’s strategic position.
What is SWOT Analysis?
SWOT is an acronym that stands for:
Strengths
Weaknesses
Opportunities
Threats
A SWOT analysis helps a business systematically evaluate its internal and external factors that impact its success. The analysis enables a business to better understand its current market position and enhance its competitiveness.
The Critical Distinction: Internal vs. External
The fundamental principle of an accurate SWOT diagnosis is correctly separating factors into two spheres:
Internal Factors (Strengths and Weaknesses): These are attributes, resources, or capabilities over which your business has a degree of direct control. They originate from within the business and are manageable. This sphere includes your team’s skills, financial assets, Intellectual Property (IP), management structure, organisational culture, and operational efficiency.
External Factors (Opportunities and Threats): These conditions exist outside the immediate control of your business. They typically arise from the wider business environment—such as political, economic, social, technological, legal, or environmental trends (often referred to as PESTLE factors). You cannot change them, but you must respond to them strategically.
Let’s explore each of the four factors in more detail.
Hit download to get a free Microsoft Word SWOT Analysis template.