To discover weaknesses and strengths of an initiative, individual, group or organisation, and to identify both potential opportunities and threats.

1.     Introduction of the matrix. Emphasize that strengths and weaknesses should refer to internal aspects of the initiative, individual, group or organisation. Opportunities and threats can be looked at as internal or external factors affecting them.

2.     The group defines, discusses and records as many factors as possible for each heading.

3.     Alternatively, different sub-groups can undertake a SWOT on their own. Comparing the different SWOTs can foster a constructive discussion about the differences and similarities of experiences and possibilities.

4.     Based on this preparation, discuss what actions are needed:

• How can we apply our strengths to make use of the available opportunities?
• How can we use our strengths to avert threats?
• How can we deal with our weaknesses
• What are the threats on the horizon?

• Matrix template
• Writing utensils