The Flex Employment Agreement affects many groups and positions across Freie Universität Berlin. However, there are exceptions. This includes, for example, staff who are required to follow a specific schedule as part of their terms of employment. It is not generally possible to provide the same degree of flexibility for members of staff employed under these conditions.

There is a shared belief that extending the time range during which work may be carried out or making core working hours (functional work hours) more flexible does not provide a suitable basis for reliable shift plans and schedules, particularly in sensitive work environments such as clinics. Nevertheless, it is assumed that a more flexible working model could boost Freie Universität Berlin’s image as a modern, attractive employer. Such a model could provide a solution to staff shortages and take the pressure off units affected by shortages.

It is important to emphasize that the impact of the Flex Employment Agreement will be very limited in areas where staff work according to schedules or shifts.