This research aims to show the relationship between university governance and digital transformation, focusing on strategic changes. It explores the impact of digitalization on the challenges in designing change within university structures. The research builds upon existing research on university governance models. It is based on studies related to the German Excellence Initiative and the Higher Education Pact 2020, which have significantly influenced governance structures and innovation processes in German universities (see Alshaer et al, 2017).
The study employs a case study methodology, utilizing an expert panel (n=18) with qualitative aspects of change at a Conference of the National Society of Public Administration Informatics. This approach allows for in-depth analysis of real-world scenarios and expert insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by digitalization in university governance. The research reveals that data governance and digitalization of management offer significant advantages to university governance. However, these advancements also necessitate adapted governance approaches to fully leverage their potential.
For academics and administrators, the study highlights the need for flexible governance models that can adapt to the rapidly changing digital landscape. Policymakers should consider the interplay between funding criteria and governance structures when designing higher education initiatives. This paper provides a perspective on the intersection of comprehensive analysis of how digitalization jointly influences governance structures and innovation processes in German universities.

Authors:
Christian Schachtner, RheinMain University of Applied Sciences, Germany
Nadine Baumann, RheinMain University of Applied Sciences, Germany

About the Presenter(s)
Professor Christian Schachtner is a University Assistant Professor/Lecturer at RheinMain University of applied Sciences in Germany

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