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Turn a SWOT into strategy (TOWS)

A SWOT analysis converted into concrete SO, WO, ST and WT strategies with priorities.

This is a practical, copy-paste process for annual planning.. Use it when you want a clear structure, then add your own details and the linked evidence.

Published by Deepstory Research. Reviewed Sep 2026.

How to use this method

  1. 1. Copy or downloadCopy the prompt below, or download the method file and attach it to your chat.
  2. 2. Paste into any AIChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or Copilot. Replace each [PLACEHOLDER] with your details, or let the AI ask you.
  3. 3. Add evidenceAttach the evidence files listed on this page so the AI works from sourced numbers, not guesses.

The prompt

Paste it as-is. The AI will ask for anything still in [BRACKETS].

Download .md
# Turn a SWOT into strategy (TOWS)
Method by Deepstory Research: deepstoryresearch.com/method/swot-tows-strategy

You are a strategy facilitator who hates SWOTs that lead nowhere. Follow the method below step by step. Goal: A SWOT analysis converted into concrete SO, WO, ST and WT strategies with priorities.

## My inputs
- Organisation: [ORGANISATION]  (example: family-owned logistics firm)
- Context: [CONTEXT]  (example: losing share to app-based competitors)
- Known facts: [KNOWN_FACTS]  (example: attach any reports)

Before you start: if any input above is still in [BRACKETS] or missing, ask me for it in one short numbered list and wait. Do not guess. If I attached files (data, briefs, Deepstory evidence files), treat them as the primary source.

## Steps to follow
1. Build a SWOT with specific, evidence-backed points (max 5 per box).
2. Cross the boxes into a TOWS matrix: SO, WO, ST, WT strategies.
3. Score strategies on impact, cost and speed.
4. Recommend the top 3 with first actions.

## Deliver the output in this structure
- SWOT
- TOWS matrix
- Scored strategy list
- Top 3 with first 30-day actions

## Quality rules
- Internal factors go in S/W, external in O/T, never mixed.
- Each strategy must use at least one specific SWOT item.
- Label every number as FACT (with source and date), ESTIMATE (show the calculation) or ASSUMPTION.
- If a Deepstory evidence file is attached, use its figures as the reference values and cite its source references; tag claims that are not from it as [UNVERIFIED].
- End with: the 3 assumptions that matter most, what would change the answer, and the single best next step.

What you need to give the AI

InputPlaceholderExample
Organisation[ORGANISATION]family-owned logistics firm
Context[CONTEXT]losing share to app-based competitors
Known facts[KNOWN_FACTS]attach any reports

Use it when

  • Annual planning.
  • Evaluating a product line or business unit.

What you get

  • SWOT
  • TOWS matrix
  • Scored strategy list
  • Top 3 with first 30-day actions

The procedure, step by step

Read this before you run it, so you can check the AI actually followed the method.

  1. 1

    Build a SWOT with specific, evidence-backed points (max 5 per box).

  2. 2

    Cross the boxes into a TOWS matrix: SO, WO, ST, WT strategies.

  3. 3

    Score strategies on impact, cost and speed.

  4. 4

    Recommend the top 3 with first actions.

Quality checks built into the prompt

  • • Internal factors go in S/W, external in O/T, never mixed.
  • • Each strategy must use at least one specific SWOT item.
  • • Every number labelled FACT, ESTIMATE or ASSUMPTION; claims outside attached evidence tagged [UNVERIFIED].

Evidence to use with this method

Methods tell the AI how to think. Evidence gives it sourced numbers to think with. Download a context file and attach it with the prompt.

Run next

Methods that chain well after this one.

Business Strategy & PlanningSet OKRs for a team or companyThree to five objectives with measurable key results, owners and a check-in rhythm.Business Strategy & PlanningCompare strategic options in a decision memoA crisp memo comparing 2–4 options against explicit criteria, ending in one recommendation.Business Strategy & PlanningWrite a business planA complete, lender- or investor-ready business plan with market, model, operations, team and financials.Business Strategy & PlanningFill a Business Model CanvasA completed nine-block Business Model Canvas with the riskiest assumptions highlighted.

Deepstory methods are process guidance for AI tools. Review AI output before relying on it; legal, tax, medical and investment decisions need a qualified professional.