Gap analysis: What it is and how to do one

The text explores the concept of gap analysis, a strategic tool businesses use to identify their current position, desired goals, and the missing elements needed to bridge the gap between them. It likens conducting a gap analysis to training for a 10K race, emphasizing the need for a clear plan and assessment of current capabilities. The process involves identifying the current state, defining future goals, pinpointing gaps in skills, processes, technology, and resources, and developing a plan to address these gaps with measurable objectives and priorities. The text provides examples of different types of gap analyses, such as performance, product, skills, market, and process gap analyses, and suggests various tools and frameworks like SWOT, PEST, and fishbone diagrams to aid in the analysis. It concludes by highlighting how automation tools like Zapier can help businesses close gaps more efficiently by streamlining operations and workflows.