However, in a world where Forbes has found that as many as 84% of digital transformation projects fail3, higher education institutions face an even more difficult challenge than most in achieving success. If higher operating costs, increased competition and funding pressures were not enough for executives to deal with in 2023, they are also being asked to clear significant hurdles on the path to digital excellence.
Digital transformation in higher education is the integration of digital technology into all areas of a university or other tertiary institution, so much so that it fundamentally changes how it operates and delivers value to students and staff. As opposed to a one-off initiative or improvement, true transformation is all-encompassing and requires a strategic approach that involves multiple campuses, faculties, departments and stakeholders including students, academics and administration staff. Digital transformation is sweeping the world, with the global industry projected to more than double from $470 billion in 2020 to $1.009 billion by 20254.
Digital transformation is no longer a maybe but a must for higher education institutions. That said, it is not a simple process due to various factors.
With a client base overwhelmingly made up of digital natives, universities are under intense pressure to deliver the best of digital experiences. Students expect engaging and seamless experiences when interacting online with their universities but are often left disappointed by poorly integrated systems and, in some cases, user interfaces from a bygone digital era. A desire to find quick wins too often sees institutions rush through individual projects rather than investing in overarching digital transformation strategies.
When Workday recently surveyed 1,150 senior executives about their digital transformation efforts, only 5% of higher education leaders said at least half of their daily operations had been digitalised5. This compared to 18% of all surveyed leaders, highlighting that many colleges and universities are yet to invest the time, money and effort needed to meet the 21st century needs of their stakeholders. While other sectors have long realised the need to digitise, many universities have underinvested in their digital estates and are subsequently struggling with antiquated systems, skills and architectures.
One of the largest challenges for higher education institutions pursuing digital transformation is the complex nature of the institutions themselves. Universities typically consist of multiple faculties, schools, campuses and departments operating under one banner, which means data silos are the norm rather than the exception. This is further exacerbated by a tendency for academics to pledge allegiance to their discipline over their employers. Data lies at the heart of digital transformation but accessing such information can be difficult in a world where fences and barriers are not only in place but often passionately guarded.
Digital transformation is much easier when supported by a tech-savvy and enthusiastic workforce. Unfortunately, higher education institutions often find themselves battling to get the full support of academics who believe they know better than administrators. This can be a significant hurdle, particularly when coupled with workers who do not boast robust digital skill sets. When setting out on a digital transformation journey, it pays to know the digital capabilities of those impacted but one UK study found only 14% of higher education teaching staff had received an assessment of their digital skills and training needs6.
The great thing about hurdles is they can be overcome. Here are some tips for achieving digital transformation success in the higher education sector.
Digital transformation is a game-changer for many reasons. It promotes new opportunities, better learning outcomes and improved experiences for students and staff alike. It is also too important to get wrong. Do your research, talk to experts, invest wisely and, ultimately, enjoy the benefits that come from being a more efficient digital organisation.
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