The results of a SWOT analysis allow an organization to focus on business opportunities (A). SWOT—an assessment of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats—is a strategic planning tool used to identify how internal capabilities can be leveraged to capitalize on external opportunities while mitigating risks.
The “opportunities” component of SWOT highlights favorable external conditions such as market growth, technological advances, demographic shifts, or regulatory changes that the organization can exploit. By aligning strengths with opportunities, leaders can make informed strategic choices about where to invest resources and how to compete effectively.
International trends (B) and financial stability (C) may be inputs to or outcomes of SWOT analysis, but they are not its primary focus. Competitive benchmarking (D) is a separate analytical activity that may inform SWOT but is not the central purpose of the tool.
SPHR exam content emphasizes SWOT as a foundational framework for strategic decision-making, enabling HR and business leaders to align people strategy with market opportunity.
References :
HRCI SPHR Exam Content Outline — Functional Area: Leadership and Strategy (strategic analysis tools).
HRCI SPHR Study Guide — Application of SWOT analysis in organizational planning.
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