The quality management system of Freie Universität Berlin is based on the principle of decentralization and prioritizes the principle of dialogue.

The pronounced autonomy of the departments and central institutes corresponds to the importance of the concept of freedom at our university, which is enshrined in its name. This historical understanding is anchored within a firm constitutional framework in the form of the supplemental rules and regulations (Teilgrundordnung) issued in 1998. The allocation of responsibilities within the university is regulated in such a way that decisions are made, where possible, at a decentralized level in order to optimize their effectivity.

These immensely strengthened powers at both central and decentralized levels are the key to Freie Universität Berlin’s ability to establish effective and solution-focused management tools, including a systematic quality management framework.

In addition to the university’s formal decision-making processes, the communication framework between central and decentralized actors in particular ensures a culture of open exchange and transparency and contributes to a common understanding and the ongoing improvement of quality criteria across the university.