Developing Organisational Resilience During COVID-19

This technical report examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on organisational resilience within a higher education institution, specifically a Swiss university of applied sciences. The study utilizes a retrospective qualitative case study approach, incorporating Chronicle Workshops and semi-structured interviews to gather insights from various staff members, including management, teachers, and administrative personnel. The research spans from March 2020 to June 2022, focusing on significant events such as the initial lockdown and the transition to telework. Key findings highlight best practices for resilience, including proactive communication, investments in health and safety, and effective crisis management. The report also identifies areas for improvement, such as enhancing crisis communication and addressing siloed functioning within the institution. The study underscores the importance of integrating both social and technical aspects in crisis responses and emphasizes the need for managerial support to foster resilience against future challenges.