Title: Towards a framework for digital transformation in higher education institutions: identifying key gaps and core requirements

Authors: Roberto Coronel; Federico Trigos

Addresses: Tecnologico de Monterrey, EGADE Business School, Av. Eugenio Garza Lagüera y Rufino Tamayo, San Pedro Garza García, NL, 66269, Mexico ' Tecnologico de Monterrey, EGADE Business School, Av. Eugenio Garza Lagüera y Rufino Tamayo, San Pedro Garza García, NL, 66269, Mexico

Abstract: Higher education institutions face persistent challenges in aligning their operational and management processes with rapidly evolving technological demands. These challenges are intensified by systemic inertia, limiting institutions' ability to adopt data-driven mechanisms that enhance responsiveness, operational efficiency, and academic quality. While existing research has explored digital transformation in education, a gap remains in structured frameworks that effectively integrate administrative digitalisation while improving educational outcomes. This paper's contribution is identifying key challenges in current approaches and outlines conceptual elements that should inform future frameworks. This work delineates critical dimensions that warrant consideration in the design of future solutions. It's intended as a conceptual synthesis to support theoretical exploration and agenda-setting. It highlights core-principles and structural components, including data interoperability, quality-centric design, and strategic alignment with institutional objectives. By establishing a conceptual basis for administrative digitalisation, this study supports future research to develop integrated frameworks that link operational efficiency with academic quality.

Keywords: academic quality enhancement; administrative efficiency; data-driven administration; higher education institutions; operational digitalisation; quality assurance frameworks; systemic transformation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJASM.2026.154947

International Journal of Agile Systems and Management, 2026 Vol.19 No.3, pp.375 - 397

Received: 02 Dec 2024
Accepted: 10 May 2025
Published online: 20 Jul 2026 *

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