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Jisc creates framework to guide higher education to digital transformation

In a sector first, Jisc has released a framework to help universities make strategic moves towards digital transformation.

Underlining the importance of digital technology in delivering education, Jisc has released a framework to help universities improve strategic planning around necessary digital transformation.

The first framework for digital transformation in higher education contains a clear structure for senior leaders, managers, and change agents to follow. It outlines elements necessary for successful digital transformation, including:

  • effective digital leadership
  • appropriate investment
  • robust secure infrastructure
  • stakeholder engagement
  • digitally capable staff and students
  • sharing how universities can tackle each area.

Developed in consultation with a range of UK professional bodies, the framework is accompanied by materials to help assess digital maturity across all business activities, and to signpost readers to support from UK sector bodies.

Sarah Knight, Jisc’s head of learning and teaching transformation, higher education, said:

“The framework is designed to help HE organisations navigate digital transformation in their own way, as each provider has its own needs and culture. Some might benefit from upgrading existing systems, while others might need to explore completely new ways of using digital to solve organisational challenges.”

Liam Earney, Jisc’s managing director for HE and research, said:

“Taking a calculated, organisation-wide approach to technology is vital for the long-term success and sustainability of universities. Digital transformation is an investment that can take on some of the sector’s biggest challenges, from improving flexible teaching and learning to boosting organisational efficiency and offering greater resilience during disruption.


“Our recent report on digital strategies shows there is certainly appetite among universities to make meaningful change. Digital is now so vital to higher education that some leaders have noted that, if organisations still need to write a digital strategy, they should make it their last.”

Reflecting on the impact of positive digital transformation, he surmises:

“Digital transformation is about using technology to better meet the needs of students and staff; it is really all about the people who benefit from innovative improvements.”

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