A strategic planning tool that compares current performance or capabilities with desired future state to identify deficiencies or opportunities for improvement. It helps organizations understand what needs to be addressed to achieve their goals.
From 'gap' (Middle English 'gappe' meaning 'opening' or 'breach') combined with 'analysis' (Greek 'analyein' meaning 'to examine'). The business methodology emerged in the 1960s as part of strategic planning frameworks, helping organizations systematically identify differences between current and desired states.
Gap analysis is like using a business GPS - it shows you exactly where you are now, where you want to go, and most importantly, what's missing on your journey to get there! The magic happens when you realize that closing gaps isn't just about adding things, but sometimes about removing obstacles or changing direction entirely.
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