Gap Analysis

What is Gap Analysis?

The Gap analysis definition process is mainly used to know if the company is performing as expected. In other words, it tells you if the company is using the available resources in an efficient manner.

In order to compare the current performance with the desired results, companies use a gap analysis. Three metrics are used to determine the current business performance. They include time, labor, and money. It is quite important for businesses to determine their current business performance so that they can develop future business strategies to achieve their desired results.

An Overview of Gap Analysis

The growth of a company decelerates when the resources, technology, and other crucial objects are not managed properly. That’s when the gap analysis comes into the picture. Commonly known as Needs Analysis, this process is a must for all types and sizes of organizations. It is a way for business to find out their current position and compare it with their future goals.

In other words, the method helps companies figure out if they are managing their resources properly. Additionally, it gives you a complete overview of your company’s position. Many companies modify their business plans to align them with their desired goals.

Gap analysis isn’t a new concept. In fact, it has been around since 1980. The concept was extensively used in the past to understand the exact performance of the business. However, it is a little complicated as compared to the duration analysis. That’s the reason why gap analysis is implemented occasionally. Basically, gap analysis involves four steps that help you come up with an action plan to achieve your final objectives.

Steps of Gap Analysis

1. Building the Organizational Objectives

Companies need to outline the main business objectives that they plan on achieving by the end of the financial year. These goals must be measurable and achievable. You need to set realistic and attainable goals.

2. Measuring the Current Performance

Next, you are supposed to find the current performance of your business. In this step, companies gather historical data and reports to determine their financial position and overall business performance.

3. Analyzing the Gap

The business data is used to find out the difference between the current company position and the desired position. It also helps businesses know what hampered their growth.

4. Gathering a Gap Report

The last step is to gather the quantitative data and use it to draft a report that tells why the productivity and performance of the business are not up to the mark. The report also marks the activities and areas that the company needs to focus on. Based on these insights, a company can form a new and innovative business strategy or modify the existing one.

Bottom Line

Gap analysis can be used in startups, medium-sized companies, and large corporations. In addition to measuring Financial Performance, this method can be used to analyze and compare sales, employee satisfaction, and quality control.