3 Gap Analysis Fails

3 Gap Analysis Fails

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Lets talk about gap analysis, that process where we try to figure out where we are, where we want to be, and whats missing in between. Sounds straightforward, right? But like any good plan, it can go sideways if were not careful.

3 Gap Analysis Fails - managed service new york

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So, lets explore three common ways gap analyses fail, and how to hopefully avoid those pitfalls.


First, theres the "Vague Goals" trap (the kind that leaves everyone scratching their heads). Picture this: youre trying to improve "customer satisfaction." Great! But what does that even mean?

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Is it faster response times? Friendlier service reps? Fewer product defects? Unless you define what "customer satisfaction" looks like in concrete, measurable terms (think specific metrics, like "reduce average response time to under 2 minutes"), your gap analysis is going to be all over the place. Youll be trying to fill a gap you cant even see clearly, which is, well, a bit pointless. Without clear, specific, and measurable objectives, youre basically wandering around in the dark, hoping to stumble across a solution. The solution here is to focus on making those goals SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.


Next up, we have the "Data Desert" problem (when youre working blind). A gap analysis is only as good as the information its based on.

3 Gap Analysis Fails - managed it security services provider

    If youre relying on outdated, incomplete, or just plain wrong data, your analysis is going to be skewed. Imagine trying to plan a road trip with a map from the 1950s – youre probably going to end up lost, or worse, driving into a lake where a road used to be. Similarly, basing your gap analysis on biased surveys, anecdotal evidence, or ignoring key data points (like competitor analysis!) will lead you down the wrong path. Make sure youre gathering comprehensive, reliable data from a variety of sources before you even think about identifying gaps. Think surveys, customer feedback, performance metrics, industry benchmarks – the whole shebang.


    Finally, theres the "No Action Plan" letdown (the plan that gathers dust).

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    Youve done the analysis, youve identified the gaps, youve written a beautiful report… and then it sits on a shelf, unread and unloved. A gap analysis is utterly useless if it doesnt lead to a concrete action plan with clear ownership, timelines, and resources allocated. Its like diagnosing a problem with your car but never actually taking it to a mechanic.

    3 Gap Analysis Fails - managed service new york

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    The problem remains, and youre still stuck on the side of the road. The action plan should outline specific steps to close the identified gaps, assign responsibility for each step, and set realistic deadlines. Without this crucial follow-through, your gap analysis is just an academic exercise, a waste of time and energy.


    So, there you have it: vague goals, data deserts, and inaction. Avoid these three pitfalls, and your gap analysis has a much better chance of actually helping you bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be.

    3 Gap Analysis Fails