052: Mastering the SWOT analysis

In this episode I discuss the SWOT analysis, which I believe is one of the most valuable tools in your strategy toolbox. Done well, a SWOT analysis is a great way to structure your strategic thinking and inform decision-making. Firstly, I explain what a SWOT analysis is and how to complete one. Your strengths and weaknesses are internal to your school and should cover things that happen inside your school community. The opportunities and threats emerge from trends beyond the school gates that you can't directly influence.  I then share my top five tips for mastering the SWOT analysis:Get specificPrioritiseTest assumptionsThink about interactionsConsider what you can controlA SWOT analysis is useful for any project or challenge that you want to structure your thinking around. Episode highlightsWhat is a SWOT analysis (02:26)SWOT checklist (07:25)My five top tips (08:37) References and ResourcesEpisode 048: Scanning your environmentCatch up on previous episodes at www.consultjuliet.co.uk/podcast Download your copy of the free eBook ‘The Strategic Independent School Leader’ at www.consultjuliet.co.uk/ebookThank you so much for listening to The Independent School Podcast. I would be grateful if you could spare a couple of minutes to send me some feedback here. This helps me make the podcast as helpful as possible to listeners. Thank you!