What strategic recommendation might be appropriate if a SWOT analysis indicates strong competition as a threat?

Enhancing product quality as a strategic recommendation in response to strong competition is a sound approach. High-quality products can differentiate a company in a crowded market, allowing it to capture a more significant share of customers' attention and loyalty. By focusing on product quality, a business can create a competitive advantage that not only satisfies existing customers but also attracts new ones who might be seeking better alternatives.

Strong competition typically means that there are several players in the marketplace offering similar products or services. In such a scenario, emphasizing superior quality can lead to enhanced customer satisfaction and increased word-of-mouth referrals, which can be a powerful form of marketing. Superior quality can also lead to higher prices and margins, helping the company maintain profitability despite competitive pressures.

The other options, while potentially beneficial in certain contexts, do not address the urgency of the threat posed by strong competition as directly as enhancing product quality would. For instance, increasing advertising spend may draw attention but does not necessarily improve the product itself, while diversifying product lines could dilute focus and resources. Focusing on niche markets might limit the customer base and might not be viable in all circumstances, especially if the company has sufficient capital and capability to enhance its existing offerings.