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Digital Strategy
Abertay will use digital technology to widen opportunity, improve efficiency and equip our community to thrive in a changing world.
Abertay will use digital technology to widen opportunity, improve efficiency and equip our community to thrive in a changing world.
The Digital Strategy serves as a key enabler for the University's Strategy 2025–2030, supporting the institution's core purpose to provide transformational opportunities, inspire and empower the University community and create a positive impact both locally and globally. This approach is firmly rooted in the values of inclusivity, care, innovation and collaboration, which guide all aspects of the strategy's development and implementation.
The Digital Strategy outlines how digital infrastructure, tools, data and modern methods will enable delivery of the University's goals in learning, teaching, research, business operations and knowledge exchange, working in alignment with other supporting strategies. We aim to prepare all students and staff to succeed in a rapidly changing world, while also streamlining business processes and driving operational efficiencies across the University.
The Digital Strategy is fully aligned with the Abertay University Strategic Plan 2025–30. The Strategic Plan sets out the University's vision to be "Scotland's leading modern university – recognised for our commitment to widening participation, preparing students for the world of work, and impactful research and knowledge exchange."
Digital technology is now woven into every part of university life. At Abertay, we believe that digital transformation extends beyond simply adopting new technologies – it is fundamentally about people, fostering a culture of opportunity, driving academic and research excellence and enhancing the effectiveness of all university services.
Central to this strategy is the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, which will fundamentally reshape teaching, learning, research and business operations. By embracing AI and other emerging technologies, Abertay will enable innovative approaches to education and research, automate routine tasks and deliver smarter, more responsive services for our community and external partners.
In addition to underpinning the core mission, the Digital Strategy strengthens the objectives of various supporting strategies, encompassing efforts to improve the student experience, promote impactful research, advance sustainability, develop digital skills and streamline business operations. Serving as both an enabler and a foundational element, the Digital Strategy ensures that innovation and efficiency are systematically incorporated into the University's ongoing development.
A further contribution of the Digital Strategy lies in supporting the University's sustainability goals. By promoting environmentally responsible IT practices and underpinning efforts to achieve net zero targets, the strategy plays a vital role in minimising the environmental impact of the University's digital operations.
By 2030, Abertay University will be recognised as a leader in digital innovation, inclusion and resilience within the tertiary education sector. We will adapt to technological shifts and economic changes by building robust systems and equipping our students and staff with the skills and confidence to handle change and overcome challenges. Our progress will be measured through external recognition, such as awards and sector rankings, improvements in student and staff digital skills as evidenced by regular surveys and evidence of successful implementation of transformational digital projects. We will also monitor engagement with digital change initiatives and track the resilience and reliability of our digital infrastructure through key performance indicators.
Our digital vision will be built on the following pillars:
We will use digital technology to make learning more accessible, flexible, personalised and engaging. Every student will have access to high-quality digital resources, personalised support and opportunities to develop the digital skills needed for the modern workplace. Our staff will be equipped with the tools and training to innovate in their teaching and support student success, where appropriate.
Our digital infrastructure, robust data management and AI capabilities will create a secure and collaborative environment essential for achieving the priorities in the Research, Knowledge Exchange & Innovation Strategy. Leveraging artificial intelligence and data analytics, we will drive discovery and maximise the local and global impact of our research.
We are committed to ensuring that everyone – regardless of background, ability or location – can fully participate in university life. Our digital services will be designed for accessibility and inclusion from the outset, removing barriers and supporting the diverse needs of our community.
Our approach to digital accessibility will extend across the University's digital estate, encompassing both student- and staff-facing systems, content and platforms. We will take a proactive approach to digital accessibility by regularly reviewing systems and platforms against recognised accessibility standards and by supporting users with appropriate assistive technologies, where required.
We will continue to build on our cloud-first foundations by further integrating and automating university processes to enhance operational efficiency, reliability and sustainability. Our digital choices will prioritise environmentally responsible solutions, seeking to reduce our carbon footprint and energy consumption wherever possible, aligned to the Sustainable Development Strategy. We will regularly review and optimise our digital services to ensure they are efficient and support the University's sustainability goals, while also streamlining workflows and removing unnecessary complexity. By embracing innovative technologies and sustainable practices, we aim to create a more resource-efficient and resilient institution for the future.
We will lead by example in the responsible use of digital technology, especially AI and the use of data. Our approach will be transparent, safe, lawful, fair, ethical and focused on building trust, with clear governance and support to encourage staff and students to experiment with innovative new technologies safely and confidently.
Digital connects people, ideas and opportunities across Abertay and beyond. We will invest in secure, robust infrastructure and foster a culture of digital confidence, collaboration and continuous improvement to ensure this flourishes.
We will place equal emphasis on staff and student digital experience, recognising that accessible, reliable and well-designed digital services are critical to organisational resilience, staff wellbeing and effective delivery of teaching, research and professional services. We will strengthen staff digital capability through clear development pathways, guidance and training that enable staff to:
confidently use core digital platforms.
create accessible digital content.
engage effectively with emerging technologies.
We remain committed to the principles that have effectively guided us in the past, now refined and updated for 2025–2030. Specifically:
Most core systems have moved to the cloud, providing flexibility, scalability and resilience. We will continue to leverage cloud technologies, whilst focusing on integration and automation and choosing hybrid where it makes sense to do so. At the same time, we recognise that the external environment for digital infrastructure is evolving, shaped by regulatory, geopolitical and market developments. We will maintain active oversight of risks associated with cloud provision, including data protection, regulatory compliance, vendor concentration and long-term service resilience. Cloud First will remain a guiding principle, applied pragmatically and alongside assessment of risk, opportunity and institutional need.
We will co-design digital services with students and staff and adopt Customer Service Excellence (CSE) practices – publishing service standards, acting on feedback and evidencing improvements through regular reviews.
We will maintain robust cybersecurity, responsible AI use and data protection practices with regular training and transparent governance.
All digital initiatives will consider environmental impact, supporting the University's net zero ambitions.
We will continue to embrace new technologies, including AI, to enhance services, teaching, learning, research and business operations, while ensuring responsible and ethical use.
Our commitment to robust information governance is reflected in the adoption of the Information Governance Framework and the implementation of robust information management practices. These initiatives underpin our principles of security, compliance and responsible information and data management, enabled by the digital infrastructure and culture changes set out in this strategy.
We will strengthen the delivery of our strategic project portfolio by refining our methods, optimising resources and enhancing processes for monitoring and reporting. This will ensure we achieve consistent outcomes, maintain transparency and stay closely aligned with the University's strategic objectives.
The University recognises that digital services, cloud platforms and AI can have environmental impacts, particularly in relation to energy consumption and the lifecycle of digital infrastructure. Digital innovation will therefore be aligned with the University's wider sustainability and net zero ambitions.
Specifically, we will:
Choose providers that use low carbon energy, replace old equipment with energy-efficient devices and recycle responsibly.
Use sensors and data to monitor and reduce energy use, improve comfort and support safety across campus.
Choose suppliers and partners who share our commitment to sustainability.
Train staff and students to use digital tools in ways that support sustainability.
Consider environmental impact in the procurement, planning and delivery of significant digital initiatives.
Seek to improve transparency around the sustainability of digital infrastructure over time.
We want every student to have an excellent experience, wherever and however they study. The Digital Strategy supports this by providing and maintaining the digital infrastructure, integrating data and developing capabilities that enable data-driven decision-making and student support, while pedagogical ownership remains with the Student Success Strategy.
Specifically, we will:
Monitor and identify barriers to participation related to device access, connectivity or cost. AI and digital tools recommended for learning or support will be made available through institutional licences or free, privacy-compliant versions, with services designed for affordability and equity.
Continue to invest in online and blended learning platforms and learning resources so students can learn on campus, online or with partners. This enables students to access high-quality education wherever they are and ensures alignment with the University's broader strategic ambitions.
Leverage learning analytics and student engagement data, in line with ethical-use principles, to benefit both students and staff. This includes enabling staff to identify and respond promptly to student needs for early intervention and support; empowering students to view their own learning metrics and progress, fostering self-awareness and motivation; and helping staff utilise learning data to reflect on and enhance their teaching practices.
Ensure accessibility standards are met, including compatibility with assistive technologies like screen readers and voice recognition. Content will follow guidelines such as WCAG, with regular audits and user feedback to address barriers. Staff and students will be trained in creating and using accessible digital materials to ensure an inclusive digital environment.
Invest in and provide training and support to help students use digital tools confidently, with additional assistance provided for cohorts who may be less familiar with technology. We recognise that supporting some groups may involve extra workload, so resources and planning will be provided to ensure staff and students are adequately supported.
Invest in expanding secure, flexible digital assessment options, including online exams and coursework submission. To maintain academic integrity and ensure authenticity, we will also explore measures and technologies that help prevent unauthorised use of AI-assisted tools in the completion of assessments.
Actively involve students in designing, evaluating and improving digital platforms through feedback tools like surveys and student groups. Their input will guide decisions on digital resources, accessibility and user experience, ensuring that services stay responsive, inclusive and aligned with student needs.
By leveraging digital infrastructure, secure data environments and intelligent systems, we will enable the impactful and collaborative research objectives outlined in the Research, Knowledge Exchange & Innovation Strategy.
Specifically, we will:
Provide secure, easy-to-use platforms for managing research data, collaborating with partners and sharing results.
Support open access to research outputs and data, making it easier for others to learn from and build on our work.
Use artificial intelligence and data analytics to support research, where applicable, following the University's AI Governance Framework.
Offer training in digital research methods, data management and literacy and responsible use of technology.
Protect research data and intellectual property with strong security measures.
Trial self-service, on-demand research environments (including virtual labs) with secure data controls, accelerating collaboration while meeting funder and publisher requirements.
By expanding the use of AI, we can further enhance the quality, efficiency and societal impact of our research, supporting innovation and knowledge exchange at every stage of the research lifecycle.
Abertay aims to operate as an organisation that adopts digital technology to support staff, improve processes and encourage innovation. This approach is consistent with the People Strategy by addressing digital development, wellbeing and inclusiveness within our community.
Specifically, we will focus on the following areas:
We will:
Deliver role-based learning paths (foundation to advanced to specialist) for staff and students, including digital skills, data literacy and AI practice.
Foster a culture where all individuals are encouraged and empowered to share ideas and provide feedback on digital services, ensuring equal and accessible access for everyone.
Design digital services that support staff wellbeing, including efficient ways of working through automation and AI, where applicable, and easy access to support.
We will:
Use digital tools, including AI where applicable, to automate routine tasks, freeing up staff time to focus on higher-value work and development opportunities. We will leverage automation and AI to support staff by minimising repetitive tasks, enabling them to concentrate on more meaningful and rewarding activities that foster personal growth and contribute to the University's success. Our commitment is to use technology to enhance roles, support staff wellbeing and foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
Connect systems to reduce duplication and improve data flows and quality.
Move beyond simply removing paperwork by designing end-to-end digital processes that are fully integrated across departments and functions. Information flows seamlessly, workflows are automated using AI where appropriate, and staff and students experience faster, integrated and more reliable services.
We will:
Continue with our Cloud First strategy. This will make our digital infrastructure more flexible, scalable and resilient whilst also supporting business continuity and more rapid innovation.
Focus on further integrating our digital environment, enabling more automation and ensuring our systems work together smoothly to support the University's goals.
Continue to invest in fast, secure Wi-Fi and fixed network infrastructure across campus to support Cloud First.
Protect university data and systems from cyber threats, with regular training, testing and patching.
Ensure our cloud-based systems and robust backup plans minimise the impact of any disruptions.
Ensure Estates and IT Services collaborate closely to realise a unified vision for a smart and sustainable campus. Digital solutions form an integral part of estates development, facilitating intelligent building management, optimising energy efficiency and superior facilities. Through the integration of digital infrastructure with estates expertise, we aim to establish a connected and forward-looking environment that fosters innovation and enhances campus life.
We want to use digital technology, including AI, in ways that are fair, transparent and responsible. AI- and data-driven tools have the potential to enhance the quality, efficiency and reach of research, learning and business operations and we will explore this potential in a considered, responsible and proportionate manner.
Specifically, we will:
Use AI to support teaching, learning, research and business operations, always with clear benefits for students, staff and the wider community. AI will enhance, not replace, human judgement and creativity.
Adhere to ethical standards in AI use by implementing the University's AI Governance Framework, conducting regular risk assessments, maintaining transparency regarding AI deployment and ensuring robust human oversight in all AI-supported decision-making processes.
Be open about where and how AI is used in university systems. Staff and students will be informed when AI is involved in decision-making and will have the right to ask questions or challenge outcomes.
Consider affordability, licensing and equitable access when adopting AI-enabled tools, to avoid creating unintended barriers to participation for students or staff.
Provide training and guidance for staff and students to help them understand, use and critically assess AI tools. This includes support for using AI in learning, research, knowledge exchange, innovation and business operations.
Use data responsibly, protect privacy and comply with all relevant laws. Only use data and AI in ways that are fair, secure and respect individual rights.
Encourage responsible and ethical experimentation with AI, supporting research and innovation that benefits Abertay and wider society. Work with partners, industry and the public to share knowledge and best practice.
Harness the power of data analytics to uncover insights, inform strategic decisions and drive continuous improvement across the University. Good data is also essential for efficient and effective day-to-day operations, enabling staff to make informed choices, optimise processes and respond swiftly to operational needs. By leveraging advanced analytics, we can better understand trends, measure outcomes, enhance daily workflows and proactively respond to emerging challenges and opportunities.
Implement intuitive dashboards to visualise key data trends, support evidence-based decision-making and provide real-time insights for student and staff groups. These dashboards will help monitor progress on strategic priorities, identify opportunities for improvement and foster a culture of transparency and data-driven performance across the University.
Ensure that all technological tools and platforms are adopted and maintained with consideration for ethical standards, accessibility and long-term sustainability. Prioritise technologies that promote inclusion, minimise bias and reduce environmental impact, fostering a digital environment that benefits all members of the University community and our global environment.
Ensure the Information Governance Framework is central to the University's ambition for responsible, transparent and effective use of information and data. The Digital Strategy provides the tools, infrastructure and impetus for cultural change necessary to embed these initiatives across the University, supporting compliance, operational efficiency and innovation.
AI-powered tools will help personalise learning, provide instant feedback and support students with diverse needs.
AI and data analytics will streamline research methods by enabling faster analysis, cross-disciplinary collaboration and improved processes at every stage – from literature reviews and experiment design to data collection, pattern recognition and publication drafting.
AI will help optimise energy use, manage resources and support smart campus initiatives.
AI will streamline processes, keep our data secure, automate routine tasks and help staff focus on added-value work.
AI adoption will be evidence-based and adaptive. We will monitor developments in research, policy and practice and will refine our use of AI in response to emerging insights, ensuring that AI supports – rather than substitutes for – human expertise, creativity and critical thinking.
|
Linked strategic objectives |
Related objectives |
Alignment |
|---|---|---|
|
Student Experience and Successful Outcomes |
Objectives 2, 5 |
The Digital Strategy acts as a key enabler in delivering an outstanding student experience by integrating digital technology throughout the learning journey. Through the adoption of innovative digital tools and infrastructure, the University will make learning more accessible, flexible and engaging for all students. The strategy ensures that digital services are designed to eliminate barriers, so every student – regardless of background, ability or location – can fully participate in university life. By prioritising digital equity and inclusiveness, the Digital Strategy empowers students to achieve successful outcomes in a dynamic, technology-driven world. |
|
Research with Impact |
Objective 3 |
The Digital Strategy serves as a catalyst for delivering impactful research at Abertay University. By providing advanced digital infrastructure, robust systems and innovative tools, the strategy empowers researchers to collaborate effectively and securely and exchange knowledge across disciplines and borders. It enables the seamless adoption of open research practices, ensures secure and efficient data management and promotes the responsible use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and data analytics. Through these capabilities, the Digital Strategy not only supports but actively drives high-quality research, allowing the University community to generate meaningful insights and real-world solutions. |
|
A Sustainable Future for Abertay |
Objective 1 |
The Digital Strategy will be a key enabler in achieving a sustainable future for Abertay University. By integrating digital technologies that minimise the environmental impact of IT, the strategy drives forward the University's net zero ambitions. In alignment with the Estates Strategy, it supports smart campus initiatives – such as intelligent energy management and digital monitoring systems – that maximise resource efficiency and reduce waste. Through the promotion and adoption of innovative digital solutions, the strategy empowers the University community to make more sustainable choices in daily operations, teaching and research. Additionally, the Digital Strategy prioritises collaboration with partners and suppliers who share Abertay's commitment to sustainability, ensuring that environmental responsibility remains central to all digital initiatives and procurement processes. |
|
Our Organisation, Our People |
Objective 4 |
The Digital Strategy will be a key enabler in empowering our staff and students with the digital skills necessary for success. By investing in ongoing digital development and fostering a culture that embraces innovation and continuous improvement, the strategy ensures our community is both confident and adaptive. Through a focus on reliable, secure and resilient digital infrastructure, the strategy supports flexible working, streamlines processes and enhances collaboration across the University. In this way, the Digital Strategy provides the foundation and tools needed for our people to thrive, collaborate effectively and drive organisational excellence. |
This supporting strategy expresses our values in the following ways:
Embedding inclusivity and digital equity, ensuring all students and staff can participate fully.
Promoting care through accessible services and support for wellbeing.
Driving innovation via adoption of new technologies and continuous improvement.
Fostering secure collaboration across disciplines and with external partners.
EDI considerations: The strategy actively addresses digital poverty, accessibility and equity, ensuring services are designed for affordability and inclusion.
|
Indicator |
2025 Baseline |
2030 Target |
Public or internal |
|---|---|---|---|
|
The proportion of students reporting in the National Student Survey that they have the IT resources and facilities to support their learning. |
88.3% |
Equal or exceed the Scottish mean score |
Public |
|
Percentage of strategic digital projects in the portfolio assessed for environmental impact and sustainability. |
0% |
100% |
Public |
Please note: A broader set of KPIs underpins this strategy. These indicators are reviewed through internal governance processes and are therefore not included here
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