Skip to content
Planet RoadmapPlanet Roadmap
Sign InGet Started
Glossary
Roles & process

What is SWOT Analysis?

A SWOT Analysis is a strategic planning technique used to identify the internal and external factors that can impact the success of a business or project. It categorizes internal factors as Strengths or Weaknesses, and external environment factors as Opportunities or Threats.

When to use it

Teams should use a SWOT analysis during annual or quarterly planning to reset their strategic focus. It is also highly effective before launching a new product line or when the competitive landscape changes significantly, as it helps identify where to allocate resources for the highest impact.

Example

A SaaS startup specializing in AI-driven CRM identifies their proprietary algorithm as a Strength and a small customer support team as a Weakness. They see the expansion of mid-market companies into global markets as an Opportunity and a potential recession as a Threat. Consequently, they prioritize automating support workflows to address their internal Weakness, while focusing marketing messaging on efficiency to mitigate the external economic Threat.

How Planet Roadmap helps with SWOT Analysis

Planet Roadmap features an OKR tree view that lets you translate findings from your SWOT analysis into measurable objectives and link them directly to items on your product roadmap.

Try Planet Roadmap free

FAQ

What is the difference between a SWOT analysis and a competitive analysis?
A SWOT analysis evaluates both internal organizational factors and external market conditions, whereas a competitive analysis focuses specifically on how your product features, pricing, and market share stack up against direct rivals.
How do you make a SWOT analysis actionable?
The most effective way is to use a matching strategy: use your Strengths to exploit Opportunities and use your Strengths to overcome Threats. Then, create specific OKRs to address Weaknesses before they prevent growth.

Related terms

Product StrategyOKRObjectiveInitiativeValue vs Effort MatrixProduct-Market Fit

Read more

Build your roadmap with Planet Roadmap

One workspace for feedback, roadmap, project management, and OKRs — flat-rate pricing, no credit card required.

Try Planet Roadmap Free