What role does SWOT analysis play in strategic decision-making?

SWOT analysis is a strategic planning tool that provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating a company's internal and external environments. It specifically focuses on identifying four key aspects: strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This analysis helps organizations understand their current position by highlighting what they do well (strengths) and where they need improvement (weaknesses), as well as external factors they can exploit (opportunities) and those that pose risks (threats).

By analyzing these elements, businesses can make informed decisions that leverage their strengths to capitalize on opportunities while mitigating potential threats and addressing weaknesses. This strategic insight is crucial for formulating effective business strategies and ensuring sustainable growth.

The other options do not encapsulate the primary purpose of SWOT analysis; rather, they address other business considerations. For example, identifying profit margins pertains to financial analysis rather than strategic planning. Similarly, assessing financial health focuses on the monetary aspect of the company, and evaluating employee satisfaction relates to human resources management—none of which are the primary functions of SWOT analysis.