Quick Scoop: What is Gap Analysis?

Gap analysis is a way to compare your **current state** with your **desired future state** so you can see what’s missing and decide how to close the gap.

In plain English

It asks a simple question: “Where are we now, and where do we want to be?”

If the answer shows a difference, that difference is the gap—and the analysis helps you turn it into an action plan.

Why people use it

• To spot performance problems or missing capabilities.

• To improve processes, resources, or strategy.

• To identify what actions are needed to reach a goal.

Simple example

If a team wants to respond to customer emails within 2 hours, but the current average is 6 hours, the gap analysis would identify the cause and the steps needed to reach the target.

Typical steps

1. Define the current state.

2. Define the desired state.

3. Measure the gap between them.

4. Create and implement a plan to close it.

Bottom line

Gap analysis is a practical planning tool for figuring out what’s missing, why it matters, and what to do next.