Gap Analysis

 

Comparing real market and competitive intelligence user requirements with the status quo of any operation or organization should provide a clear picture of the gaps that need to be filled. As intelligence needs change as rapidly and as surprisingly as the markets and industries do, a gap analysis should be conducted frequently.




Gaps that have been identified as critical need to be addressed right away or the entire intelligence system might suffer acceptance loss or worse: would be rendered useless, just overhead or even damaging if intelligence quality is the cause of business issues.

Bringing gaps into context with intelligence goals and the overall business strategy is always a good idea. Have complaining colleagues or others who identified the gap or who are suffering from it participate in the resolution is almost a guarantee for success.



It might be advisable however to challenge identified gaps against nice-to-have’s. Demonstrating this capability and even discontinuing intelligence features if proven ineffective can only help the intelligence program’s credibility.

Gaps closed in the intelligence effort and process need to be communicated thoroughly to align market and competitive intelligence professionals and users behind the new or improved features and capabilities and to promote the innovation potential and business focus of the intelligence department.