SWOT Analysis Template
Creators: name: Hollmann, Christiane
name: Regierer, Babette
name: Tobin, Lesley
name: Hollmann, Susanne
Publisher: name: Zenodo
Year: 2025
Subjects: Risk analysis tool, project management, Strategic planning, Internal analysis, External analysis, Risk management, Competitive analysis

description: A SWOT analysis [1,2] is a widely used framework for evaluating internal strengths and weaknesses as well as external opportunities and threats of a project, business, or new product. In research, it serves as a diagnostic tool to assess project feasibility, identify key risks, and develop strategic exploitation plans.

This document provides a structured approach for conducting a SWOT analysis in research, guiding researchers through the process of identifying critical factors that impact project success.
description: How to Use the Analysis:

Fill each section with specific examples and data of your research project. Prioritise items within each section to focus on the most critical factors.

Use the analysis to develop strategies:



build on strengths,

address weaknesses,

capitalise on opportunities,

mitigate threats.


1. Strengths

Ask: What internal resources or advantages does the research project have?

Topics under this section might refer e.g. to



Strong expertise or skills within the team,

Access to advanced research facilities or equipment,

Established partnerships or networks with academic or industry collaborators,

Availability of funding or grants,

Innovative methodology or unique research focus.


Example: The project uses a groundbreaking data collection method unavailable to competitors.

2. Weaknesses

Ask: What internal factors might limit the project's success?

Topics under this section might refer e.g. to



Lack of expertise in certain areas,

Limited funding or resources,

Insufficient access to data or samples,

Time constraints or unrealistic deadlines,

Personnel not available

Poor dissemination plan for results.


Example: Team lacks experience in commercialisation or public engagement of research findings.

3. Opportunities

Ask: What external trends or factors can benefit the project?

Topics under this section might refer e.g. to



Emerging industry needs or societal trends that align with your research objectives,

Availability of new funding calls or policy support for your research area,

Potential for partnerships with industry, government, NGOs, or non-profit organisations,

Growing public interest or awareness in the research field


Example: There is increasing demand for environmentally sustainable innovations in the market.

4. Threats

Ask: What external risks could hinder or inhibit the project?

Topics under this section might refer e.g. to



Competitive research projects exist in the same field,

Risk of intellectual property theft or lack of clarity on IP ownership,

Regulatory hurdles,

Ethical concerns,

Changes in funding priorities or economic downturns.


Example: A competing team may publish similar findings before you complete your study.

The structured approach of a SWOT analysis ensures a clear understanding of the internal and external environment affecting the research project.