Methodology for Developing a Strategy for Implementing Digital Technologies

In light of the rapid digital transformation of higher education, the aim of this learning material is to provide a comprehensive, narrative-style guide to the methodology for developing a digital technology implementation strategy within higher education institutions. Through a storytelling approach, participants will become familiar with the key concepts, steps, and tools required for the analysis, formulation, implementation, and evaluation of a digital strategy. The learning outcomes are as follows:

• i. describe the concept of the continuum of strategic planning and strategic management in the context of digital transformation (2/understanding);
• ii. analyze and critically evaluate the strategic elements of various higher education institutions (mission, vision, values, and strategic goals) in accordance with recommendations for their clarity, relevance, and focus on digital transformation (6/evaluation);
• iii. apply basic methods and techniques for situational analysis and strategy formulation, and create a strategy (7/creation).

To begin, let us recall the concept of strategic planning as illustrated in the figure below. The goal of strategic planning is to direct an organization toward long-term development, enhance its resilience to environmental changes, and ensure the alignment of resources and activities with its mission and vision.

Figure: The concept of strategic planning