In Week Two, you created a systems thinking diagram that mapped the stock, inflows, outflows, and feedback loops of an organization. As you become more familiar with your environment and the relationships and interactions between departments and people, you will begin to discover existing strengths and weaknesses. The analysis of the weaknesses and threats to a system is essential during the initial phase to make operational improvements, and it will reveal existing opportunities to plan and execute effective solutions.

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Watch Analysis Phase of a Project for guidance on things to consider and what to do in the initial phase of a project.

Complete a SWOT Analysis of your organization. Use the SWOT Analysis Worksheet and complete the following steps:

1. Complete a preliminary walk around the organization to scan the environment for strengths, weaknesses, potential opportunities, and potential threats (e.g., workflows, products, personnel, processes).

2. Follow up with additional research that may provide clarity on elements that you are hesitant or indecisive to list.

3. Review your systems Thinking Diagram from Week Two and determine if there are any details you can add or adjustments you can make to enhance your understanding of the organizational system.

4. Write an objective for your SWOT analysis.

5. List the organization’s strengths, weaknesses, potential opportunities, and potential threats.

6. Select the items that should be prioritized.