Coaching ... 

... means for us a format of process consultation related to the performance process of individuals, teams and organizations (professional coaching). The target is to improve outcomes significantly. Important issues are personal behavior changes, dealing with crises and conflicts, effective communication and role design, personal and organiational changes, strategic positioning and development, values and meaning.

Characteristics of a well-maintained "pragmatic" understanding of coaching at the FHNW are the transdisciplinarity of theories, approaches and schools with the background of a consulting theory of action. The foundation is the (systemic) attitude of resource orientation, appreciation and solution orientation, which includes a sovereign dealing with different approaches and fields of activity.

Background for our studies in professional coaching is the development of organisations and companies in the global context and the attendant individualisation of products and services. People can realize these trends in international organizations that provide services in flatter hierarchies and increasing business ownership their performance. Social services staff, mid-sized companies and administrations have to produce their value propositions for customers and society in the international competition. Professionals in all fields experience much more stringent requirements for the orientation of roles and responsibilities in complex situations and the growing need for personal responsibility and autonomy. And that’s what coaching is on.