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Gap analysis template

Find the gaps between where your product is now and where you want it to be

About the gap analysis template

There is always room to improve. Gap analysis is the process of evaluating where your product falls short of its desired state. It involves identifying shortcomings, areas for improvement, and discrepancies between what you currently offer and what your customers expect or want.

It is crucial to be honest about your product gaps. Gather customer feedback and involve key stakeholders — you want your gap analysis exercise to be informed by people who have a real understanding of the business impact of addressing the gaps.

Aim to align on a plan of action with clear goals, assigned responsibilities, and a timeline. Be open to evolving customer needs and market changes — these factors can influence the effectiveness of the gap analysis process.

How to use the gap analysis template

Pinpoint the areas where your product needs improvement to help inform strategic planning.

Focus your analysis Define the situation you want to analyze. For example, you could evaluate the gap between customer needs and your product capabilities or discrepancies between strategic goals and actual performance.
Define the current and desired future state Gather information about your current situation — capturing both quantitative and qualitative data. Then establish what success looks like and the specific outcomes you want to achieve.
Analyze the gaps Compare where you are today with where you want to be. These gaps can include product features, performance, processes, resources, skills, or other relevant factors. Prioritize the gaps based on their business impact and assess why these gaps exist.
Create an action plan Identify the actions you want to take to address each gap. Use your findings to set goals for improvement and make strategic planning decisions. Update your gap analysis as circumstances change.

Popular

Templates

The Aha! Framework

Strategy

Business planning

Product strategy