In times of crisis, agility is key

When facing challenging events like the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations must remain agile — responding to changes quickly without losing momentum or vision. This mindset can turn disruptive situations into opportunities to create and drive positive change, according to David Hofstetter, a professor at Clark University’s School of Professional Studies (SPS).

In his presentation, “Organizational agility,” Hofstetter discusses how and why organizations need to be adaptable during uncertain times. He looks at organizations that were quick to change and those that weren’t, providing tips on:

• Defining “agile” for your organization
• Planning for agility
• Turning disruption into a positive

Hofstetter urges participants to think about what processes are working and what processes need to be updated within their organizations, as well as any new processes that should be put in place.

“Just because you’ve always done it that way, doesn’t mean you always have to do it that way,” he says. “These are the really positive things that are coming out of some of this.”

Want to learn more? View the full version of the presentation, which is part of the SPS Talks series, “Staying Effective in Uncertain Times.” Offered by Clark faculty members, the interactive webinars address organizational and personal leadership topics relevant to these stressful times.