Library and Academic Services: Starting a Business: SWOT

SWOT Analysis

Getting Started: SWOT Analysis

Many Industry Research reports now feature a SWOT analysis section. This type of analysis is to help you understand the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats facing a particular industry

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SWOT Analysis

Ariana School of Business on YouTube

SWOT analysis is a key part of any business and strategic plan. SWOT stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. While strengths and weaknesses are internal origin attributes of the organization, opportunities and threats are external origin attributes of the environment. While Strengths and opportunities are helpful to achieve the objectives, weaknesses, and threats are harmful to achieving the objectives.

SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) Analysis

SWOT Analysis
(Mind Tools). Basic how-to information.

Business Source Complete This link opens in a new window
An essential tool for business students, this database contains thousands of full-text journals and magazines, e-books, case studies, industry reports, market research reports, company profiles, SWOT analyses, and more.

Bertelsen, B. (2012). Everything You Need to Know About SWOT Analysis. BrainMass Inc.
This book describes the steps to take to complete a SWOT Analysis. First, you will consider your company's strengths and weaknesses, and then you will look outward to the marketplace and the industry and think about opportunities for growth, new markets and improvements, and also the threats or obstacles to growth. A SWOT Analysis is an honest, objective, in-depth look at your company and its place in the market.
LinkedIn Learning - SWOT Analysis
Excellent short videos explaining and giving examples of SWOT analysis.
RBC SWOT Analysis Template

Featured Databases

Academic Search Complete This link opens in a new window
This leading scholarly research database houses thousands of full-text resources in a wide range of disciplines and subject areas. Includes periodicals, peer-reviewed journals, reports, and more.
Business Source Complete This link opens in a new window
An essential tool for business students, this database contains thousands of full-text journals and magazines, e-books, case studies, industry reports, market research reports, company profiles, SWOT analyses, and more.
Canadian Newsstream This link opens in a new window
Canadian Newsstream gives full-text access to almost 200 Canadian newspapers with some electronic backfiles dating back to the 1970s. Content is updated daily, giving timely access to the latest information.
Canadian Reference Centre This link opens in a new window
This database centers on its collection of Canadian full-text content including newspapers, magazines, journals, biographies, reference books, images, and more. Also has access to international content.
Conference Board of Canada This link opens in a new window
The Conference Board of Canada conducts quality research related to organizational performance, economic trends, and public policy. This database includes their reports, briefings, periodicals, executive action reports, and recorded webinars.
IBISWorld This link opens in a new window
Provides access to Canadian and US industry reports containing trends, market information, industry statistics, competitive landscape, and other industry-related information.
Regional Business News This link opens in a new window
Provides access to business news through regional business publications across North America. Coverage is weighted towards the U.S., however there is some Canadian coverage as well.

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