This article provides an overview of SWOT analysis and leads on to TOWS matrix. The TOWS matrix matches strengths and weaknesses to the opportunities and threats that the branch faces and helps develop strategies for the branch. A format is developed which can be directly applied.

The objective of strategy is to lay a foundation for tomorrow's success while competing to win in today's environment.Branches of a bank operate under different environments from one another. As such, the environment of each branch needs to be studied to determine the best strategy to be followed in respect of the particular branch. The strengths and weaknesses of the branch need to be studied along with the opportunities and threats that it faces.

The strengths and weaknesses of a branch may be found in the areas of marketing, operations including location, human resources, etc. The opportunities and threats are factors that are envisaged for the future and are unique to the external environment in which the branch operates. SWOT analysis helps in obtaining a quick feel of the strategic situation in which the branch operates (Thompson and Strickland, 1999). TOWS Matrix helps in developing strategies which match the situation in which the branch operates.