HCS 589 environmental scan

HCS 589 environmental scan

HCS 589 environmental scan

HCS 589 environmental scan

Why is an environmental scan important in the development of a strategic plan?

Environmental scanning is a process that systematically surveys and interprets relevant data to identify external opportunities and threats that could influence future decisions. It is closely related to a S.W.O.T. analysis and should be used as part of the strategic planning process.

Components of external scanning that could be considered include:

  • Trends: What trends are occurring in the marketplace or industry that could affect the organization either positively or negatively?
  • Competition: What is your competition doing that provides them an advantage?  Where can you exploit your competition’s weaknesses?
  • Technology: What developments in technology may impact your business in the future?  Are there new technologies that can make your organization more efficient?
  • Customers: How is your customer base changing?  What is impacting your ability to provide top-notch customer service?
  • Economy: What is happening in the economy that could affect future business?
  • Labor supply: What is the labor market like in the geographies where you operate?  How can you ensure ready access to high-demand workers?
  • Political/legislative arena: What impact will election outcomes have on your business?  Is there impending legislation that will affect your operations?

HCS 589 environmental scan