Digital Transformation in Higher Education: Why Skills Matter as Much as Technology
Universities are investing in digital transformation, but having the right technology is only part of the challenge. Discover why specialist skills and experienced professionals are essential to turning digital ambitions into lasting improvements across higher education.
Universities across the UK are investing in digital technology, but new research suggests many institutions are still struggling to turn that investment into meaningful progress.
A report published by Consultancy.uk in June 2026, based on research from Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), highlights a gap between universities’ ambitions for digital transformation and their current capabilities.
What universities are asking for
The research surveyed 200 education leaders across the UK, US and Australia. While 79% were optimistic about future growth, only around a third said their institutions had achieved advanced levels of digital maturity.
Meanwhile, 57% described their organisation’s digital capabilities as still evolving.
This suggests that investing in new technology is only part of the challenge. Universities also need the right systems, processes and specialist expertise to make those investments deliver results.
The importance of specialist skills
Successful digital transformation requires more than implementing new software. Universities need professionals who can manage complex systems, analyse data, lead organisational change and ensure new technology works effectively across departments.
Roles in IT infrastructure, data and business intelligence, ERP systems and digital transformation are therefore important to helping institutions modernise their operations.
Without the right expertise, even significant technology investments risk falling short of their intended benefits.
What does this mean for higher education?
As universities continue to navigate financial pressures and changing expectations, making better use of existing resources will remain important.
Developing internal capabilities, supporting staff through change and recruiting people with the right specialist skills can all help institutions turn digital ambitions into practical improvements.
At Burman Recruitment, we understand the importance of connecting universities with experienced professionals across IT, data and digital transformation. Having the right people in place can help institutions deliver change and build more effective services for the future.
