Use SWOT to Make Better Decisions

Management & LeadershipChange & AdaptationManagers≈ 15 min

Key skill: Decision-making

Summary

Structure a decision or a change with a SWOT diagnostic: map internal strengths and weaknesses, external opportunities and threats, then turn it into a concrete action plan, alone or in a team workshop.

Target audience

Any manager or project lead who needs to promote and support change within their organisation.

Learning objectives

Use the SWOT tool to analyse a situation, make choices easier and prepare for successful change
Identify internal strengths and weaknesses, and external opportunities and threats, in light of upcoming change
Make better decisions by weighing different alternatives with a SWOT diagnostic
Leverage strengths and external opportunities, minimise weaknesses and address potential threats to ensure project success

Module outline

StorytellingAn imaginative exploration of how Steve Jobs might have used SWOT before launching the iPhone
ArticlesReflecting on internal vs. external complexity, drawn from an excerpt of Yves Morieux's "Smart Simplicity" · A detailed table of the 4 SWOT dimensions with key questions · SWOT as a decision-making tool
Expert videoAn overview of the 4 components of SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) with practical examples
AnchoringA quiz and True/False questions to dig deeper into the topic and anchor what you've learned
Memo cardA downloadable coaching memo card: the key points from the expert video
CommitmentConcrete examples to help you define your own commitment

Models & methods

The SWOT method; the distinction between internal factors (strengths/weaknesses) and external factors (opportunities/threats); a post-it-based workshop format; action plan.

Research-based

Drawing on an excerpt from Yves Morieux's book Smart Simplicity (internal and external complexity).