1. Bern University of Applied Sciences
  2. Institute for Organisation and Social Service Management
  3. Range of services
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Range of services

We empower social organisations to deliver impactful services. In our interdisciplinary team, we drive practice-oriented research and development projects, alongside providing expert consulting services and continuing education programmes. Our focus lies on the effectiveness of social organisations and the options available to people leading such organisations.

Research and development

Our expertise consists in supporting organisations to evolve their structures, processes and services, enabling them to fulfil their mission within rapidly changing environments. Or goal is to foster organisations that make a lasting contribution to social cohesion and people’s well-being.

Our portfolio includes customised contract research aimed at supporting the development of social organisations. Our clients operate across a wide range of sectors, including:

  • Cities, municipalities and inter-municipal associations,
  • Social welfare authorities, social services and specialised units,
  • Cantonal departments of Health and Social Affairs
  • Non-profit organisations, including associations and foundations
  • Umbrella and industry associations
  • Companies providing corporate social support offers
  • Social enterprises

Furthermore, we conduct foundational research to drive innovation within social organisations.

Inventory of Counselling Competence in Social Work

An Inventory of Counselling Competence (IBK), developed at BFH, enables social workers to self-assess their counselling skills in five areas and rate themselves alongside other professionals.

  • Institute(s) Institute for Organisation and Social Service Management
    Institute for Counselling, Mediation, Supervision
  • Head of project Simon Steger

Consulting services

Every organisation faces its own unique challenges. To address these, we provide tailored organisational and strategic development services, evaluations of newly developed programmes, professional development opportunities and consulting for managers, both at operational and strategic levels.

Continuing education

Social services are driven and shaped by the organisations that deliver them. Key aspects of professional action include strategic integration, employee management, the design of structures, workflows and change processes, as well as internal and external representation. Our work-study continuing education programmes are designed to help you deepen your management skills and further develop your leadership qualities.