Social Marketing’s Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT): A Commentary

Abstract

Background: Over the past half century, social marketing has come into its own, both as a discipline and a practice, for creating positive social outcomes. However, as the operating environment continues to evolve, the role of social marketing in the change landscape requires consideration. Focus of the article: In this article, the author presents a commentary on the present and future role of social marketing research and practice through the lens of a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis. Topics discussed in the analysis include the boundary definition of social marketing, modalities of practice, sources of funding, the complexity of target issues, and professional standing and competition. Importance to the social marketing field: Critical analysis of social marketing research and practice can assist to maintain and grow its relevance and adoption among key stakeholders. Recommendations for Research or Practice: Several recommendations are made for addressing the issues identified in the SWOT analysis. These include conscious effort to market social marketing; clarify the concept of audience orientation when designing social marketing solutions; address specific research questions that produce academic and managerial insights; utilize corporate partnerships creatively; offer social marketing course to retain accreditation of professions such as marketing, public health, environmental studies, or public administration; and, encourage documentation of initiatives. Limitations: The discussion presented here is based purely on opinions and experience of the author.