Blog
Sector-driven software procurement
Software procurement across higher education is becoming more complex by the month. Costs are rising, markets are consolidating, and institutions are being asked to do more with less.
byJohn ShaileFalling postgraduate demand shows why universities need stronger evidence to shape new strategies
New HESA data shows a significant fall in postgraduate recruitment, especially among international taught students.
byScotty DixonChallenges and opportunities – what leaders told us at our Scotland engagement forum
Senior leaders from across Scotland’s college and university sectors gathered in December for our annual stakeholder engagement forum at Fife College’s new Dunfermline City Campus.
byJason Miles-CampbellNorthern Ireland engagement forum – what members told us about their digital priorities
Strategic leaders from across Northern Ireland’s FE and HE sectors came together in Belfast for our annual Northern Ireland stakeholder engagement forum.
byJason Miles-CampbellCyber resilience: a strategic board-level priority
Our director of security shares his key takeaways from the Association of Colleges (AoC) Governance Professionals Conference.
byDavid BathoThe Cyber Security and Resilience Bill – what institutions need to know
The UK government’s Cyber Security and Resilience Bill (CSRB) presents challenges and potential opportunities for the higher and further education and research sectors, as our chief technology officer Henry Hughes explains.
byHenry HughesPreparing for TEF: how we can help you focus on your data
The next Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) will require strong evidence of teaching quality and student outcomes. We can help you strengthen your data foundations and get ready for the changes ahead.
byPhil RichardsSecurity Conference – building resilience and sharing powerful lessons to strengthen our sector
Our head of cyber engineering and architecture reflects on this year’s conference and some of its key takeaways.
byBen ChapmanPostgraduate recruitment and the rise of regional collaboration
Universities are exploring new ways to collaborate on postgraduate recruitment. We look at the opportunities, risks and how our Discover progression undergraduate to postgraduate dashboards provide the evidence to guide decisions.
byScotty DixonDigital sustainability: small choices, big impact
Exploring how practical, evidence-based actions can reduce the hidden environmental impact of digital technology and build a sustainable digital culture in education.
byCal InnesWhy trusted research environments should be at the centre of digital strategies to fuel innovation, sustainability and growth
Insights from a Jisc-hosted forum on advancing strategic approaches to trusted research environment (TRE) ecosystems reveal why collaboration and governance are key to making TREs a core part of institutional digital strategies.
byVictoria MoodyALTC25: building stronger foundations for inclusive, innovative learning
Reflections from Jisc expert-led sessions at ALTC25, sharing insights, tools and frameworks to help you navigate complexity and drive innovation in learning.
bySimon BirkettandKathryn WoodheadandCat BaileyConnect More: a journey of connection, creativity and change
Connect More returns this December to explore how digital tools and approaches can enhance teaching, learning, and student support.
byJason Miles-CampbellReducing vulnerability through strategic software asset management
Strategic asset management empowers institutions to gain control, strengthen security, and make informed decisions for long-term value.
bySonia DaviesSecurity Conference 2025: why it’s time to act on tackling cyber threats
Cyber threats demand UK education and research institutions build resilience, enforce governance, and respond swiftly to protect students, assets, and operations.
byDavid BathoUnderstanding postgraduate progression: why data matters more than ever
With domestic enrolments falling and competition rising, data-driven insight is key to postgraduate recruitment.
byScotty DixonWhat the R14 scramble tells us about data maturity
The R14 deadline exposes deeper issues in data culture and maturity across further education providers. Here’s why it’s time to take stock.
byAndy SimmTransforming curriculum and learning design in a shifting landscape
Blended learning is now core to the higher education offering but how well is it serving our students and staff?
bySarah KnightFrom league tables to life chances: why continuation matters more than ever
Improving continuation is complex, but essential. With the right data and analytics, leaders can improve rankings, reduce financial losses, and, most importantly, help more students succeed.
byJames HodgkinShaping our priorities for Wales – key takeaways from our Welsh engagement forum
Our annual Welsh engagement forum brought together education leaders to discuss sector priorities, including AI, cost pressures, bilingual provision and collaboration, directly shaping our strategic plans for Wales.
byRhys DanielsFrom data to inclusion: how Jisc supports Scotland’s innovation journey
Find out how we empower Scotland’s colleges and universities to drive inclusive, data-driven and technology-enabled innovation in teaching, learning and research.
byJason Miles-CampbellWhat students really think about their digital experience in higher education
Our newly published digital experience insights survey not only highlights areas of progress, but also points to where future investment is most needed and provides robust evidence for future initiatives.
byDominic WalkerMeeting the new international student compliance rules with learning analytics
The basic compliance assessment (BCA) threshold for international students is increasing. Learning analytics could be the key for universities achieving the higher completion rates and staying compliant.
byJames HodgkinSetting the foundations for successful collaboration
Collaboration between higher education institutions can save money, increase productivity and lead to better student experiences.
byJames ClayIt’s better together – how to make the case for collaboration
Convincingly making the case for collaboration across the higher education sector for better student experiences is crucial, but how do you get key people on board for institutional and personal buy-in?
byJames ClayWhat's next after the UKRI monographs policy roll out?
We've worked intensively on a special project to support publishers, institutions, and authors with the launch of UKRI's policy. Now we look ahead to what still needs collective action.
byAnna VernonHow Jisc helped implement UKRI’s open access policy for research articles – and what’s next
Our strategic support for implementing UKRI’s open access policy includes negotiations with 416 publishers, cost-saving measures, and future plans for sustainable open research models.
byAnna VernonGraduate Outcomes in context reveals a resilient graduate labour market
Newly released survey results paint a wider picture of the way the graduate labour market looks today.
byCharlie BallNetworkshop – a valuable opportunity to learn about the opportunities and threats faced by our community
A personal view from Bella Abrams, Jisc's chief technology officer, on the recent event for IT leaders held at Nottingham Trent University and online.
byBella AbramsTNC25 – underlining the spirit of global collaboration and sharing
National Research and Education Network (NREN) specialists from more than 70 countries gathered in Brighton, UK, to share expertise at the GÉANT TNC25 conference. It was Jisc’s privilege to host the event.
byDavid PattersonEmpowering leadership with a digital mindset: reflections from our HE summit
Digital leadership is uniquely challenging, but it's also deeply human. Here's what I learned during our digital empowered executives: HE leadership summit.
byHeidi Fraser-KraussGetting the most out of your national research and education network
The Janet Network provides UK HE, FE and research institutions (and increasing numbers of schools and other public sector bodies) with an entire ecosystem of vital connectivity services.
byNeil ShewryKeep your sanity and stay positive with Dr Estelle King at Networkshop
Ahead of her breakout session at Networkshop 2025, Dr Estelle King shares practical advice and philosophy on how you can stay connected, adaptable and resilient in challenging times.
byDr Estelle KingNew university spin-out register launched
Jisc launched a first-of-its-kind register to provide information about spin-out firms created by UK universities.
byVikas DhawanandTlyssa PlesterandDan CookEverything you want to know about cloud but are too afraid to ask
Cloud computing offers greater flexibility and scalability, and more opportunities for innovation.
byGeorge OosthuizenPutting AI into action, with Professor Judy Williams
Professor Judy Williams, pro-vice-chancellor of Queen’s University Belfast, outlines how a positive approach to technological change is delivering game-changing benefits for staff, students and the wider university community.
byProfessor Judy WilliamsEverything you want to know about cyber but are too afraid to ask
Curious about cyber security but not sure where to start? Explore the answers to the questions you're afraid to ask, with practical tips on staying secure and how Jisc can help.
bySteve HowardFive reasons why the Janet Network is the backbone of connectivity for independent schools
Whether you're reviewing your school's digital setup or just curious about better connectivity, here’s why the Janet Network is becoming a trusted choice for independent schools like yours.
byGabrielle McEvansTailor your organisation’s cyber defences: it’s smarter than relying on an off-the-peg solution
Implementing cloud security solutions without configuring them correctly might mean missing out on features that boost your organisation’s resilience and save on costs.
byRichard JacksonNext generation open access negotiations at teaching-focused institutions: what matters to us
In preparation for Jisc’s next generation open access (OA) negotiations, UK universities, whether research or teaching-focused, have been reassessing their publishing relationships.
byJudith CarrandAnna FrancaBerlin 17 and the road to next generation open access
The 17th OA2020 Conference at Harnack House, Berlin, brought together 150 representatives from 40 countries to evaluate global progress toward open access.
bySarah Roughley BarakeSetting strong foundations: why the basics matter in cyber security
Six good old-fashioned basics underpin the most effective cyber security strategies.
byBen ChapmanHow engagement and collaboration can help us find new opportunities in tertiary education
Personal reflections on Digifest 2025 from Heidi Fraser-Krauss, CEO.
byHeidi Fraser-KraussWhat's the difference between SIEM, managed SIEM and SOC?
Learn how a security information and event management (SIEM) and a security operations centre (SOC) can enhance your organisation's cyber security posture.
bySteph JonesMaximise your budget and secure better software agreements
How engagement with Jisc’s group negotiation strategies helps you make the most of your budget and ensures software licences match your needs.
byLuciana PiccoliReflections on our sustainability journey
We've published our sustainability report, describing the work we've done over the last year to minimise our impact on the natural environment.
byClare CaseyThe future of learning analytics: make data your organisation’s priority
You already have the data. Make the most of it.
byJames HodgkinandJim KeaneShaping the future: FE and skills workforce development in the age of AI
Dr Vikki Smith, executive director, education and standards at the Education and Training Foundation (ETF) reflects on how the further education (FE) and skills sector must adapt to equip the workforce of today and tomorrow.
byDr Vikki SmithClosing the digital divide: addressing digital poverty in education and beyond
Maxine Room joins us at the Association of Colleagues Conference to discuss digital poverty in education and beyond.
byMaxine RoomAI: five actions for college leaders
Michael Webb, director of AI, shares his insights into the latest AI advancements and outlines five practical steps to help colleges effectively implement AI tools.
byMichael WebbLA Story - successful learning analytics means understanding the data
Ethan Henry and Mimi Weiss share their lessons learned from implementing learning analytics at City University of London.
byEthan HenryandMimi Weiss JohnsonFast, cost-effective connection to the Internet for learners wherever they are
How SD-WAN technology can help meet the challenges of delivering blended learning.
byGuy EasterbrookThe future of assessment: embracing AI and EdTech
To coincide with A-level, T-level and BTEC results day, Olly Newton, executive director at the Edge Foundation shares his thoughts on the future of assessment and how tools such as AI are changing the game.
byOlly NewtonIt's not technology that determines the success of a VLE - it’s the users
The vital questions to ask when embarking on a virtual learning environment (VLE) change at your organisation and why there is no silver bullet.
byZac GribbleImproving cyber security immediately in one easy move – at no extra cost
How institutions can create the most secure environment possible for learning online.
byBen ChapmanBeware the 5th of July – the worst day of the year for a cyber attack
How can universities and colleges keep services running smoothly during critical periods like clearing and enrolment?
byClare StonebridgeWhat did NRENs ever do for us? The answer might surprise you
As we announce we'll be hosting TNC 2025 in Brighton, Heidi Fraser-Krauss reflects on the value of the Janet Network to UK research and education.
byHeidi Fraser-KraussWhat’s keeping FE leaders awake at night?
We asked about their challenges for the coming year – and priorities have changed
byRobin GhurbhurunMaximising the investment in research equipment
Creating a single database of available equipment could boost the societal impact of research in the UK.
byJohn KayeandBalviar NotayBuild it and they will code
Coding skills have become a coveted asset but the perception persists that it is a domain accessible only to the tech-savvy few.
byGuy StevensonIs it time to rethink curriculum and learning design?
The rapid transition to online learning in 2020 has been evaluated, lessons learned, and improvements made. The landscape has changed since then - is it time to pivot and adapt again, taking blended learning to the next level?
bySarah KnightShared threat intelligence is a game-changer for UK education and research
“Together we are stronger” should be everyone’s cyber security mantra.
byDavid BathoEmpowering education through global collaboration at Bradford College
Community champion Seima Mahmood and colleague Monika Worthington have spearheaded a campaign to make digital learning more inclusive and collaborative for ESOL learners at Bradford College
bySeima MahmoodandMonika WorthingtonHow smaller publishers are adapting and responding to the open access landscape
Small presses offer unique perspectives and wide viewpoints, and should be valued, supported and encouraged.
byAnna HughesCyber security is not just about the technical
How to persuade senior management to invest in cyber protection, from avoiding acronyms to building a community.
byDavid BathoAmplifying the voice of the further education and skills sector is key to improving software licensing terms
Collaboration between the FES community and Jisc is essential to enhancing our collective ability to drive transparency and fair pricing for the benefit of all
byLuciana PiccoliShining a spotlight on digital poverty
Analysis of the Digital experience insights survey highlights gaps in access to digital learning.
byClare KillenandDominic WalkerThe dos and don’ts of dealing with DDoS attacks
Vigilance and a complete understanding of what DDoS entails are critical to staying protected.
byClare StonebridgeandBen CrowtherOptimising the UK’s digital research infrastructure through the power of community
Reducing research bureaucracy, supporting international collaboration and growing net zero imperatives are all increasingly critical.
byVictoria MoodyOpen and transparent research is vital, but not easy - and it is reliant on research professionals
Openness and transparency are important components of rigorous and reproducible research and are fundamental to supporting a healthy research and innovation culture.
byTamsin BurlandandNeil JacobsExploring AI and assessment – avoid, outrun or embrace
A review of the three main approaches to generative AI in assessment.
bySue AttewellTransforming the learner experience by extending eduroam across the campus and beyond
Simply by opening their laptop, tablet or phone, users can now access online learning – wherever they are.
byTom HaymanThink like a hacker: improve your cyber security
Understanding how threat actors work makes it easier to make their lives more difficult
byNicole StewartNetworkshop 2024: Building the powerful connections needed to deliver the best learner experience
Explore next generation networking while also contributing to your continued professional development programme.
byJoy PalmerUK must step up to ensure access to digital learning is ethical, innovative and inclusive
Reflections from the State of the Net conference
byPaul McKeanBecoming anti-racist isn’t always easy or comfortable: but it’s the right thing to do
Outlining Jisc's journey from a non-racist to an actively anti-racist organisation
byGeorgios PappasWhat do students know about AI?
The updated Jisc discovery tool will help them find out.
byDr Becki VickerstaffandAndrew McFadyenUsing UKRI’s open access fund for long-form publications: a guide from Jisc
We’ve created a guide for librarians and research professionals who are applying for UKRI’s OA fund for long-form publications to ensure procedures can be followed with ease.
byAnna HughesSix ways FE colleges can help learners and teachers thrive in an AI-enabled world
A new set of guiding principles from Jisc and AoC makes it easier for colleges to use AI safely, responsibly and effectively.
byMichael WebbInternational Women’s Day: why STEM education remains male-dominated
Addressing the gender disparity requires a holistic approach, but virtual reality and learning through gameplay have the potential to make learning content more inclusive, accessible and engaging.
byFiona SteelUniversities should test their cyber defences - before someone else does
Academia is the top target for ransomware attacks, but there are practical steps that institutions can take to bolster their cyber security
byHenry HughesTechnology and lifelong learning can be a lifeline for adult students
This #CollegesWeek2024 we’re celebrating the impact blended and online education has on adult learners looking to upskill and improve their prospects for a better life.
byPaul McKeanMicrosoft translation tools can change teaching forever
Hull College has made learning more accessible and inclusive for over 1000 students in their City of Sanctuary by embedding Microsoft translation tools throughout the classroom and the wider campus.
byDeborah MillarHow we created an anti-racist curriculum that could transform the future of teaching
Wales’ innovative anti-racist curriculum aims to shape the world positively and break down barriers through the use of digital.
byYusuf IbrahimAI 2030 – navigating the future of artificial intelligence
As we stand at the crossroads of technological evolution, it is crucial we reflect on our journey so far in order to chart a course for the future.
byMichael WebbLet’s get ‘phygital’ – working out the future of work and education
Our mix of physical and digital workspaces is rudimentary and human skills will be as vital as future tech to making it work.
byDr Nicola MillardWhen it comes to partnership in the Scottish colleges sector, love really is all around
This #LoveScotlandsColleges week we’re highlighting the importance of partnerships to achieve colleges’ ambitions.
byJason Miles-CampbellData, digital and technology will lead the way in reducing research bureaucracy
Recommendations for Jisc from the independent review of research bureaucracy aim to enhance efficiency and support researchers in their important work.
byVictoria MoodyImplementing AI with digital wellbeing at its CORE
Basingstoke College of Technology is supporting staff and students in the ethical use of technology, including AI, to augment learning and support staff wellbeing.
byScott HaydenArtificial intelligence (AI) can make learning more inclusive for all
Insights into how using AI in the classroom can make learning more inclusive for students of all abilities.
byChris Temple-Murray