Strategy for the Meißen University of Applied Sciences (FH) and training centre

The Meißen University of Applied Sciences and Training Centre (HSF Meißen for short) commissioned CHE Consult to develop a strategic concept. The assignment included the independent conceptualisation, support and moderation of the project as well as the creation of concrete implementation proposals.

HSF Meißen is an institution of the Free State of Saxony and prepares students for future tasks in public administration and the judiciary. HSF Meißen is also the central training centre for civil servants in Saxony. In view of current challenges and developments, a strategy process was initiated for the future of HSF Meißen as a central training and further education centre for the administration in Saxony. CHE Consult was commissioned to draw up a strategic concept for HSF Meißen.

In the first phase of the project, the CHE Consult team carried out a comprehensive analysis. It analysed the current position of HSF Meißen in the external environment and determined an ideal skills profile for employees in the Saxon administration in 2035. Following the presentation and discussion of the interim results, the team submitted a detailed interim report.

In the second phase of the project, CHE Consult developed strategic proposals for the further development of the study and training programmes at HSF Meißen. In doing so, the team formulated future-orientated options for action that took possible restrictions into account. Finally, CHE Consult presented the results and drew up the strategic concept. It contains 15 strategic recommendations for action and provides clear suggestions for their short, medium and long-term implementation. Both the members of the Rectorate and the Strategy Council were convinced by the concept and approved it unanimously. It now provides a solid basis for the future development of the institution.

‘CHE Consult’s practical and forward-looking recommendations for action are of great value for the further strategic orientation of our university and our further education centre,’ says Prof. Dr Samia Härtling, Vice-Rector for Teaching and Research at HSF Meißen. ‘CHE Consult’s experience-based, flexible and efficient way of working has consistently proven to be effective. This has enabled us to anticipate the next steps to be taken with our partners by mutual agreement.’

To develop the strategic recommendations for action, the CHE Consult team used various methods over the course of the project. These included data analysis using the specially developed data visualisation tool DaViT and the analysis of university competitors and non-university providers of further education and training in Saxony. In addition, a competency matrix was used, which is based on 52 individual competencies and includes numerous sources. In addition, the team conducted interviews with external experts, moderated workshops with teaching staff, employees, students and graduates of HSF Meißen and regularly liaised with the strategy advisory board and the project team.