Reduce the gap between current and dream state with GAP analysis

What is a GAP analysis?

A GAP analysis is a method for evaluating and identifying the gaps between the current situation and the desired situation, and aims to clarify what actions and resources are needed to reduce these differences and thereby approach the desired goal.

GAP analyses are often used in various business areas to gain insight into where the organization is compared to where it wants to be, and to more easily decide on resource allocation and improvement initiatives.

The 7 basic steps of a GAP analysis

1. Define the goal (Dream state)
   Clearly state the desired goal or ideal situation that the organization strives to achieve.
2. Identify the current state
   Analyze and document the current situation, including existing processes, performance, and resources.
3. Determine the differences (gaps)
   Compare the current state with the desired goal to clearly identify the differences and gaps that exist.
4. Analyze the causes of the gaps
   Try to understand why these differences exist by analyzing the underlying causes, which may include deficiencies in processes, skills, technology, or other areas.
5. Develop action plans
   Based on identified gaps and causes, create strategies and action plans to reduce or eliminate these differences.
6. Implement action plans
   Initiate and implement the proposed actions and changes to move closer to the desired goal.
7. Follow up and evaluate
   Regularly follow up and evaluate progress to ensure that the organization is moving towards the desired goal and to adjust action plans as needed.

Where are we now? Where do we want to go? And how do we get there as quickly as possible?

A GAP analysis is a powerful tool that can be crucial to understanding and meeting your organization's overall goals. With the help of GAP analyses, you as an IT manager can more easily gain the insights you need to make strategic decisions and effectively use available resources to meet your organization's overall goals. This results in a more targeted and successful IT strategy that directly impacts your organization's business results.

It makes it easier to create and manage your budgets more effectively, which helps you avoid overinvesting in areas where your organization is already strong and instead allocate sufficient resources to areas where there is a clear deficiency.

Gain clearer insight into technological gaps and opportunities, and make more informed decisions about which technologies should be invested in to achieve your goals. This is crucial to closing vulnerabilities and reducing the risk of exploiting known vulnerabilities, which proactively contributes to a secure IT infrastructure.