Which component is NOT included in a SWOT analysis?

A SWOT analysis is a strategic planning tool used to identify and analyze the internal and external factors that can impact a business or project. The acronym stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.

Strengths and weaknesses refer to internal factors within the organization, such as resources, capabilities, and overall performance. Opportunities and threats, on the other hand, are external factors that can influence the organization and include aspects such as market trends, competitive landscape, and economic conditions.

Political factors, while important in broader strategic analysis and often included in a PEST or PESTLE analysis (which stands for Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental factors), are not a component of the SWOT analysis itself. This distinction is crucial, as each framework serves different purposes in strategic assessment. By focusing exclusively on internal strengths and weaknesses, alongside external opportunities and threats, the SWOT analysis provides a concise framework for evaluating the necessary elements critical to a business's strategic planning.