Gap analysis
By carrying out a gap analysis, you can determine which elements need to be eliminated, rectified, developed or changed to propel your company towards new horizons. This will help you identify the optimal path to realize your career ambitions. It involves a comparison between the present situation and a perfect state or goals, highlighting shortcomings and opportunities for evolution.
What is gap analysis?
Gap analysis measures a company’s effectiveness by comparing its current achievements with its potential or expected results. When a company is able to precisely identify its performance gaps, it is in a position to develop a methodical strategy to remedy and absorb these deficits, thus optimizing its efficiency. Gap analysis therefore provides companies with crucial data for judging their performance, resource management and strategies.
A gap analysis report describes in detail the gaps or problems between the current situation and the desired situation, as well as the steps to be taken to optimally achieve the organization’s objectives. The document addresses a number of questions: “What are our objectives?”; “Where are we now?”; “Why haven’t we reached our goal yet?”; and “How are we going to overcome these disparities? The following is an outline of the gap analysis report:
- Details of objectives and methodology ;
- Presentation of gaps or challenges ;
- Consideration of communication and action plans ;
- Submission of recommendations for future use.
Different approaches to gap analysis
Gap analysis can be used as a barometer to gauge a company’s performance in various areas. In this sense, several methodological approaches can be implemented. Here are a few examples:
- Personnel gap analysis : this is used to estimate the difference between the actual payroll and the useful workforce.
- Market gap analysis: also known as product gap analysis, this is used to define the company’s market position and measure the difference between actual and forecast sales.
- Performance gap analysis: also known as strategic gap analysis, this is used to identify the reasons why performance targets are not being met. It can be used to review current strategies and adjust them to achieve objectives more efficiently.
- Profit gap analysis: this is used to identify and evaluate the difference between actual profit and target profit. It’s a valuable tool for finding solutions to meet profitability targets.
The benefits of gap analysis
Here are the main advantages of gap analysis:
- Profit optimization: gap analysis identifies the reasons why a company has not achieved its profitability targets. This data is crucial for developing a strategy to achieve financial objectives.
- Identifying opportunities in the product range : companies can use gap analysis to evaluate their current range of products and services, and identify new business opportunities.
- Highlighting areas for improvement: by highlighting the areas in which the company is falling short of expectations, gap analysis enables us to define solutions for optimizing procedures.
Gap analysis report: steps to follow
The gap analysis process begins with an understanding of the organization’s current situation. The adoption of a gap analysis model can facilitate the initiation of this operation. Such a model, or gap assessment report, includes 4 main phases:
Phase 1: Analysis of current situation
Document current performance. How do staff behave? Are its needs being met?
Phase 2: Description of the desired situation
Consider the long-term goal and paint a vision of what it should look like.
Phase 3: Identifying vulnerabilities and risks
Faults illustrate the gap between reality and aspirations. Investigate the root cause of the current problem and describe the conditions required to achieve the desired result.
Phase 4: Drawing up a detailed action plan
Define and prioritize concrete steps to remedy any shortcomings. The action plan must specify solutions, justify their relevance, and set deadlines for achieving objectives.

Methodologies for conducting a gap analysis
Various methods can be used to carry out a gap assessment, including Fishbone Analysis, SWOT Analysis and the McKinsey 7s Model.
Fishbone Analysis
Fishbone analysis, or cause-and-effect diagram, is commonly used by companies to identify the main source of a problem. This tool focuses on the 6 M :
- Machines: the equipment used
- Methods: operating procedures
- Materials: material resources
- Mother Nature: the external environment
- Workforce: personnel
- Measurement: measuring systems
This system makes it easier to understand the links between these 6 M and a central problem. The diagram, resembling a fish skeleton, positions the problem at head level, with main causes extending to the left like bones, and sub-causes branching off from them.
SWOT analysis
SWOT analysis is an assessment method used to identify the internal and external elements that are essential to a company. Internal factors include strengths and weaknesses, while external factors include opportunities and threats. This approach fosters the adoption of strategic thinking to achieve the organization’s objectives. It is also beneficial for better understanding the external context, enabling us to exploit opportunities and remain vigilant in the face of any unforeseen developments that may affect the company.
The McKinsey 7s Model
The McKinsey 7s model examines 7 key interdependent components within an organization. They are divided into solid segments that cannot be controlled and flexible segments that can:
Solid segments
- Strategy: tactics for competitive advantage
- Structure: structural organization
- Systems: business procedures and technical infrastructures supporting day-to-day tasks
Flexible segments
- Shared values: the company’s core beliefs
- Style: the management approach
- Personnel: the organization’s employees
- Competencies: essential staff skills