As in a SWOT analysis, engaging a diverse cross-section of stakeholders in a data collection effort, the purpose of which is to identify the organization’s strengths, opportunities, aspirations, and desired results (SOAR), can be an effective method for gaining insights into how to create competitive differentiation, as well as to engage, align and inspire teams around the current state and future strategies and plans for the business. The particular focus of appreciative inquiry that a SOAR analysis brings creates added emphasis on leveraging existing strengths, viewing potential challenges as actual opportunities, and motivating employees to think optimistically about what the organization can achieve, rather than focus on or think in terms of barriers, weaknesses and threats.

Strategy teams looking to elevate discussion around a business’ long-lasting potential for high growth should look at using the new online SOAR Template from Praxie to drive greater employee engagement and gather insights as a whole. The SOAR analysis template is typically structured as a 2×2 matrix with each quadrant labeled according to the SOAR model – strengths, opportunities, aspirations, and results. By brainstorming specific elements that fit into each of the SOAR segments, strategists are able to identify ways in which a particular company can make the greatest use of existing skills, strengths and opportunities. Get started with our SOAR Template. 

How to use it: 

1. Review the template and questions. 
2. Enter responses for each of the SOAR areas (strengths, opportunities, aspirations, and results).  
3. Gather data and information to inform your responses if possible. 
4. Based on your SOAR, create an action plan to address your top opportunities, leverage your strengths and address any weaknesses, and ensure you achieve meaningful and measurable results. 

Unlike most traditional SOAR techniques, Praxie’s online SOAR collaboration tools allow any team or organization to instantly begin working with our web templates and input forms. Our digital platform goes far beyond other software tools by including progress dashboards, data integration from existing documents or other SaaS software, elegant intuitive designs, and full access on any desktop or mobile device.