Resumo

The introduction distinguishes between localized crises and global, long-term economic and pandemic crises. Since 1970, the OECD has reported 18 economic crises, with significant impacts from the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. The Resource-Based View (RBV) theory, which emphasizes effective management of internal resources and capabilities, is presented as a strategic framework for higher education institutions (HEIs) to navigate economic crises. This study reviews international literature to identify the resources and capabilities HEIs use to survive such crises.

Given the occurrence of global economic crises that affect the survival of higher education institutions (HEIs) which have diversified resources and capabilities this study proposes the following research problem: What are the resources and capabilities used by HEIs in facing economic crises based on international scientific literature? Main Objective: Therefore the general objective of this study is To specify based on international scientific literature the resources and capabilities HEIs use in facing economic crises.

The theoretical framework examines the impact of recent economic crises, such as the 2007-2008 subprime crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, on global economies. The Resource-Based View (RBV) is highlighted as a strategic management theory that emphasizes internal resources over external factors. Resources are classified into financial, physical, human, and organizational categories, with dynamic capabilities enabling adaptation to environmental changes. These capabilities include integration, reconfiguration, gaining and releasing resources, strategic decision-making, and correction.

The discussion highlights that HEIs employ strategies such as containment, perseverance and innovation to face economic crises, without any evidence of an exit strategy. HEIs use financial, physical, human and organizational resources, emphasizing leadership and management strategies for effective crisis management. Dynamic capabilities – integration, reconfiguration, resource gain/release, strategic decision-making, and remediation – are crucial to resilience. Efficient strategic management balances short-term and long-term survival, highlighting the need for further research.

The conclusion emphasizes the critical role of diverse resources and dynamic capabilities in the survival of HEIs during economic crises. The HEIs adopted the strategies of containment, perseverance and innovation, and used the financial, physical, human and organizational resources of the RBV structure. Capabilities such as integration, reconfiguration, strategic decision-making, and remediation are vital to adapting to crises. The study highlights the importance of efficient resource management and strategic agility to ensure resilience and sustainability in uncertain economic environments.

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