What is a SWOT analysis and how is it used in strategic planning for sport organizations?

• A. A checklist for equipment inventory.
• B. An analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats; used to identify internal capabilities and external conditions to inform strategy.
• C. A financial audit process.
• D. A method to count participants at events.

Answer: (B)

SWOT analysis is a framework for examining internal strengths and weaknesses and external opportunities and threats. In strategic planning for sport organizations, it helps reveal what the organization does well and where it may be vulnerable (internal factors), alongside external conditions such as market trends, funding, partnerships, and policy changes. This dual view informs strategy by highlighting where the organization has competitive advantages and where to focus improvements, which opportunities to pursue, and which threats to mitigate. The process guides decisions about where to compete and how to win, shaping priorities in programs, facilities, staffing, marketing, and partnerships, and it supports creating feasible, impactful action plans. It’s not simply about equipment checks, audits, or counting participants; those are specific tasks, while SWOT connects capabilities with the external environment to shape strategic choices.