Environmental Scanning - Definition & Importance

Published in Marketing and Strategy Terms by MBA Skool Team

What is Environmental Scanning?

Environmental Scanning is a process of analyzing internal and external factor of the environment. Environment scanning is a process in which the organization undertakes a study to identify the opportunities and threats in an industry. Environmental scanning is a part of SWOT Analysis. The information obtained through environmental scanning can be used by leaders to design new objectives and strategies or modify existing objectives and strategies. An organization must be agile in responding to environmental challenges while making most of the available opportunities.


Importance of Environmental Scanning

Environmental scanning is an important aspect to predict future and be prepared in the volatile business environment.  The frequency of environmental scanning depends on the needs of the organization. An organization operating in an industry which is highly impacted by technological innovations needs to constantly monitor its environment and use the results to design its processes. On the other hand, some organizations might need to conduct an environmental scan on an ad-hoc basis.


Areas Covered in Environmental Scanning

a) Economic conditions

b) Competition

c) Global opportunities

d) Employment trends

e) Technological advancement

f) Industry

g) Geo-political climate

This article has been researched & authored by the Business Concepts Team. It has been reviewed & published by the MBA Skool Team. The content on MBA Skool has been created for educational & academic purpose only.

Browse the definition and meaning of more similar terms. The Management Dictionary covers over 1800 business concepts from 5 categories.

Continue Reading:



Share this Page on:
Facebook ShareTweetShare on Linkedin