Claire Haining
26 March 2024: The University of Canberra has marked another milestone in delivering the objectives of its decadal strategy, Connected, with the release of the University’s 10-year Digital Master Plan (DMP) this week.
One of the three objectives of Connected is ‘Connected UC’ – to deliver an outstanding, digitally connected experience that removes barriers to access. The DMP will transform how the University works with partners, supports staff and students, and continues to build and expand the University community.
Initial funding for the DMP will see the first three years of the plan supporting the delivery of priority digital initiatives across the University. This includes the commencement of 68 prioritised initiatives in the first phase.
“The DMP is about radically boosting the experiences of everyone who connects with our University. This includes students, staff, and community – enhancing the way we work, research, study and connect. We are pushing forward with our plan to deliver the Digital Together strategic program within our Connected decadal strategy,” said the University’s Chief Digital Officer Craig Mutton.
“This is a significant and sustained investment in our University, that will help us continue to serve the Canberra region and beyond, empowering connected experiences.”
Gathering at the Bruce campus, staff and students celebrated the release of the Plan, which is the result of an extensive co-design process conducted over the last year. Mr Mutton told those attending the event that the DMP was designed to adapt and respond to the needs of the University community, as well as to the rapidly and continuously evolving digital environment.
“This is a plan for our entire University, not just for the Digital Portfolio – nor is it a solely technology-focused plan. The initiatives that we deliver under the plan will be led by staff, working with students, across all business units and faculties. We will support our people to succeed by providing exceptional experiences and streamlined and automated processes, enabled by intuitive technology and quality data,” Mr Mutton said.
Delivering a welcome address at the launch, Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Michelle Lincoln highlighted the importance of the Plan in delivering the University’s key strategic initiatives.
“Our Connected Decadal Strategy sets out a clear ambition for UC to be a global leader in driving equality of opportunity. Digital Together, one of the key strategic initiatives under Connected, is vital to achieving this mission by empowering connected experiences. I can confidently say that the initiatives to be delivered, as well as the way we go about delivering them, will embody our shared University values,” Professor Lincoln said.
Under the DMP, several impactful and visible projects are already benefiting the University.
The Curriculum Management Solution and Student Connect Communications Automation projects ensure students have the right information available when they need it, in order to enhance their university experience. This automation and process-driven solution supports a reduction in compliance risks for the University, allowing staff more capacity for value-add initiatives for students.
The DMP will guide the University as it continues to focus on the future of higher education, connecting the University’s digital environment with its people, experiences and physical spaces.
Images by David Beach.
