answersLogoWhite

0

Strategic analysis is about looking at what is happening outside your organisation now and in the future. It asks two questions:

  • How might what's happening affect you?
  • What would be your response to likely changes?

It's called strategic because it's high level, about the longer term, and about your whole organisation.

It's called analysis because it's about breaking something that's big and complex down into more manageable chunks.

The focus is external because factors outside your organisation have a powerful influence on it. Increasingly organisations appreciate that they can learn to manage their response to those influences, rather than assume there is nothing they can do.

It's part of the overarching process of strategic planning.

Strategic analysis boosts organisational effectivenessStrategic analysis helps to:
  • Anticipate what might happen
  • Evaluate how likely it is to happen
  • Prepare for it happening

Strategic analysis will lead to clearer more relevant goals, better quality decisions, and a more secure future as you are better prepared for what will happen.

Otherwise known as "external environmental analysis" it is a key step in strategic planning. It is the link between getting your overall direction right and making the right decisions. You will make better decisions if you understand the influences from the outside world to which you might have to respond in the future.

Many funders are reassured by strategic analysis because they know that organisations that are well prepared for their future are more likely to use grants, donations and loans to greatest advantage and to maximise the difference their organisation makes.

The cost of not doing at least a small amount of strategic analysis means missed opportunities (some call this 'opportunity cost' - the cost of not doing something). If you don't do strategic analysis you risk being left behind, missing opportunities for beneficiaries.

User Avatar

Wiki User

13y ago

What else can I help you with?

Continue Learning about Management

Advantages and disadvantages of strategic management?

Strategic management has many advantages and disadvantages. One advantage of strategic management is being able to expect whatever comes up.


What is meaning and importance of strategic analysis?

Strategic analysis is "the process of developing strategy for a business by researching the business and the environment in which it operates." It is important because it helps a business determine how it can reach its goals using available resources.


What are the strategic management process?

The strategic management process is a method by which managers conceive of and implement a strategy that can lead to a sustainable competitive advantage. There are five parts to it.


What are the steps in the strategic management process?

The strategic management process typically involves several key steps: first, conducting a thorough environmental analysis to assess internal strengths and weaknesses, along with external opportunities and threats (SWOT analysis). Next, organizations set clear goals and objectives based on this analysis. Following goal-setting, strategic options are developed and evaluated, leading to the formulation of a strategic plan. Finally, the implementation of the strategy is carried out, followed by ongoing evaluation and control to ensure the strategy remains effective and relevant.


What is strategic analysis?

Strategic analysis is about looking at what is happening outside your organisation now and in the future. It asks two questions: * How might what's happening affect you? * What would be your response to likely changes? It's called strategic because it's high level, about the longer term, and about your whole organisation. It's called analysis because it's about breaking something that's big and complex down into more manageable chunks. Strategic analysis is about looking at what is happening outside your organisation now and in the future. It asks two questions: * How might what's happening affect you? Strategic analysis is about looking at what is happening outside your organisation now and in the future. It asks two questions: * How might what's happening affect you? * What would be your response to likely changes? It's called strategic because it's high level, about the longer term, and about your whole organisation. It's called analysis because it's about breaking something that's big and complex down into more manageable chunks.

Related Questions

What does competitive advantage have to do with strategic planning?

Competitive Advantage is vital to Strategic planning. Strategic planning identifies strengths and weaknesses and visions and missions for the future. Competitive advantage relys on the benefits of the companies strengths and act upon them to turn them into competitive advantage. Other firms can't duplicate strategy or competivness that they don't have.


What is the difference between current and strategic job analysis Which is more important?

A strategic job analysis is one in which a plan of action is in place to accomplish a particular goal. The current job analysis is what is currently in place that may need to be changed.


What are the types of strategic analysis?

To maximise on profits and market gap


What was Apples mode of entry for their strategic analysis?

Just Exporting


Who is likely to conduct a strategic analysis?

A strategic analysis is typically conducted by senior management teams, strategic planners, or business analysts within an organization. Additionally, external consultants may also be engaged to provide an objective perspective and specialized expertise. This analysis is crucial for identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) to inform decision-making and long-term strategic planning.


Why did Germany expand its empire to Africa?

They were after oil and a strategic advantage.


What is the best move in algebraic notation to gain a strategic advantage in the current position?

In the current position, the best move in algebraic notation to gain a strategic advantage would be to play Bb5.


What is SPACE analysis matrix?

The SPACE analysis matrix is a strategic management tool used to evaluate a company's strategic position by assessing four dimensions: financial strength, competitive advantage, industry strength, and environmental stability. It combines internal and external factors to determine the most suitable strategic direction, whether it's aggressive, conservative, defensive, or competitive. By plotting these factors on a matrix, organizations can visualize their strategic options and make informed decisions for future growth. This framework is particularly useful for understanding how external market conditions and internal capabilities interact.


What are the advantages of swot over six forces model analysis?

advantage of model analysis


Which types of ISs can gain strategic advantage and which cannot?

Information systems that can gain strategic advantage are those that enable firms to differentiate their products/services, achieve cost leadership, or focus on niche markets. Operational information systems that focus on day-to-day transactions and decision-making typically do not provide strategic advantage.


Why is strategic-group analysis important for superior competitive positioning?

Strategic-group analysis is important for superior competitive positioning because it helps businesses identify and understand the competitive dynamics within their industry. By categorizing firms into groups based on similar strategies, resources, and market behaviors, companies can assess their own strengths and weaknesses relative to their peers. This analysis enables organizations to pinpoint opportunities for differentiation, identify potential threats, and develop targeted strategies to enhance their competitive advantage. Ultimately, it informs strategic decision-making and helps firms position themselves more effectively in the market.


Why does a PEST analysis help to shape strategic direction?

<(--)> find out yourself