SOAR Analysis is a strategic planning framework that focuses on an organization’s current strengths and future potential. It stands for Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations, and Results. Instead of focusing on fixing internal weaknesses or analyzing external threats, SOAR helps teams build a shared vision by emphasizing what is working well.
What is SOAR Analysis?
A SOAR analysis uses a 2x2 grid to align an organization’s internal successes with its external growth possibilities. It is built on [the concept of Appreciative Inquiry] (Library Guides: Journalism - Strategic Communication: SOAR Analysis), a method of organizational learning that focuses on positive transformation.
The framework, [created by Jacqueline Stavros, David Cooperrider, and D. Lynn Kelley] (Cascade), divides the strategic conversation into four quadrants:
- Strengths: What the organization does exceptionally well today, including assets, core competencies, and unique selling propositions.
- Opportunities: External trends, market gaps, or new partnerships that can be capitalized on for growth.
- Aspirations: The future dreams and goals that excite the team and challenge the status quo.
- Results: Tangible, measurable data points used to track success and confirm progress toward aspirations.
Why SOAR Analysis matters
- Positive orientation: It focuses on growth and innovation rather than risk and competition.
- Stakeholder engagement: It requires buy-in from all levels, including employees and customers, to create a system-wide vision.
- Actionable metrics: It forces teams to convert vague dreams into Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) or Objectives and Key Results (OKRs).
- Internal discovery: It identifies hidden strengths through customer feedback that may otherwise be overlooked.
How SOAR Analysis works
The process typically occurs in a brainstorming workshop involving stakeholders and colleagues. It follows five practical steps:
- Analyze current and future states: Use the top row of the matrix (Strengths and Opportunities) to list current reality. Fill the bottom row (Aspirations and Results) to define the desired future.
- Define focus areas: Narrow down the ideas from brainstorming to pick a few "big wins" that are impactful and attainable.
- Put the plan into action: Communicate the strategy clearly so employees do not fall back into old habits. Assign ownership for specific tasks.
- Review progress: Use dashboards or tracking software to check progress against the Results quadrant. This prevents strategic drift.
- Adapt and adjust: Markets shift, so teams must update the SOAR chart to match new trends or internal changes.
Best practices
- Include your customers: Ask what they love about your products to discover strengths you might not be aware of.
- Focus on SMART goals: Ensure the "Results" quadrant contains specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound targets.
- Iterate annually: Treat your SOAR analysis as a living document and re-evaluate it every year to keep the strategy fresh.
- Work with leadership: Ensure HR or business goals align with the plan by securing support from senior leaders.
Common mistakes
Mistake: Skipping the "Results" quadrant and only focusing on dreams. Fix: Link every aspiration to a specific metric, like user growth or profit targets.
Mistake: Focusing only on the present. Fix: Use the "Aspirations" section to actively challenge the current routine and innovate new ideas.
Mistake: Ignoring the competitive landscape. Fix: While SOAR is positive, use SWOT analysis instead if you need to perform detailed threat assessments or risk management.
Mistake: Communicating only via memo. Fix: Hold review meetings and use software to promote inter-departmental connection and transparency.
Examples
The following scenarios show how the framework translates aspirations into measurable outcome targets:
- Handmade Goods (e.g., Etsy): With a strength in market leadership for handmade items, [aspirations for market dominance are measured by goals like 15% user growth each quarter] (The Strategy Institute).
- Ride-Sharing (e.g., Uber): Using a strength in app ease-of-use, [global expansion aspirations are tracked against a 50% yearly growth target] (The Strategy Institute).
- Social Media (e.g., TikTok): Capitalizing on mobile-use trends, [the aspiration to become the top social app is linked to a 100% yearly user growth result] (The Strategy Institute).
SOAR Analysis vs. SWOT Analysis
| Feature | SOAR Analysis | SWOT Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Components | Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations, Results | Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats |
| Primary Goal | Growth and shared vision | Identifying risks and fixing problems |
| Outlook | Forward-looking and optimistic | Comprehensive (looks at both good and bad) |
| Best For | Internal discovery and innovation | Checking competitors and outside threats |
FAQ
How long does a SOAR Analysis take? Most sessions can be completed in under an hour. However, the exact timing depends on the size of the organization and how well-prepared the team is before the brainstorming session.
Who should participate in the session? You should include a mix of employees from all organizational levels. This ensures you capture the current reality of the business from multiple perspectives while building buy-in for future goals.
Can I use SOAR for individual planning? While it is best suited for cross-departmental and organizational planning, it can be used individually to align personal strengths with career aspirations and measurable results.
When should I choose SWOT over SOAR? Choose SWOT if your organization is about to engage in high-risk initiatives. SWOT is better at assessing competitive threats and internal weaknesses that need immediate correction.
