A TOWS analysis is considered a counterpart or extension of the SWOT analysis. While SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats, TOWS stands for Threats, Opportunities, Weaknesses, and Strengths. This means a TOWS analysis starts with analyzing external factors first before internal ones, unlike a SWOT analysis that looks to prioritize internal findings and issues first. Adopting both frameworks can help greatly in creating business plans.