Example of SWOT analysis tools

The examples of SWOT analysis elements below refer to the analysis of a fictional higher education institution.

Strengths are internal factors that give a higher education institution an advantage over other institutions. These are areas in which the institution is successful and which should be nurtured.

Examples of strengths:

• reputation and tradition: recognition in the academic community
• quality of teaching and research work: satisfied students and partners
• human resources: expert teachers and researchers
• material and digital infrastructure: libraries, laboratories, e-learning.

Weaknesses are internal factors that can limit the development of an institution or reduce the quality of study programs. Their improvement is necessary to ensure competitiveness.

Examples of weaknesses:

• lack of financial and human resources
• weak organization of administrative processes
• insufficient international cooperation or mobility
• outdated infrastructure or technology

Opportunities are external factors that can enhance the development of higher education institutions. Although they cannot be directly influenced, institutions can use them to set strategic goals.

Examples of opportunities:

• growing interest in certain scientific and professional fields
• digitization and development of new educational technologies
• availability of national and European funds
• strengthening international networks and partnerships.

Threats are external factors that can negatively impact higher education and reduce the long-term performance of institutions.

Examples of threats:

• strong competition from other domestic and foreign universities
• changes in legislation and educational policies
• demographic decline and reduction in the number of students
• economic instability and reduction of public funding.