Priority 4: Driving Transformation Through Technology
We will modernize digital infrastructure and streamline processes to create secure, efficient systems that support administrative efficiency, academic success, research and community engagement. By leveraging advanced technologies and protecting sensitive data, we will ensure operational excellence, safeguard our community and position the university as a next-generation land-grant leader.
Next-Gen Imperatives
Imperative 8:This priority fully embodies the focus on operational excellence and “One K-State” in all processes and systems.
Imperative 5:Digital transformation enables the university to adapt to the evolving needs of learners, employers and society.
Imperative 6:Streamlined administrative processes make partnerships seamless and efficient.
Imperative 4: Grow research enterprise.
Goals
Strategies
Create governance policies for information technologies with the priority to migrate academic and administrative systems to scalable cloud-based solutions and provide faculty and students cloud resources that enhance teaching, learning and research while supporting flexibility and future growth.
Integrate advanced identity management systems to streamline authentication, improve user experience and onboarding, enhance compliance, empower research and ensure proper system and data security.
Re-envision finance, HR and student ERP systems into integrated, cloud-based platforms to improve efficiency and decision-making.
Strategies
Implement NIST-aligned cybersecurity standards to safeguard institutional data and ensure compliance.
Enhance the university-wide cybersecurity awareness program to educate faculty, staff and students on best practices for data protection.
Work with our university partners to refine business services, practices and procedures to reinforce a security-first approach.
Conduct regular risk assessments and audits to ensure compliance with state, federal and institutional data security regulations.
Collaborate with HR and others to ensure security training is included in consolidated training dashboards and is consistent with other training processes for maximum success.
Strategies
Modernize IT infrastructure and support to handle increased academic, research and administrative demands while improving system reliability and scalability.
Coordinate services, support and training around usability and accessibility to ensure consistent student experience and effective implementation.
Develop and implement a business continuity and disaster recovery plan to ensure critical university operations continue during unexpected/unplanned disruptions.
Regularly evaluate IT organizational structure and information technology governance model to strengthen integration, support unit-specific needs and ensure alignment with university priorities through coordinated support and collaboration.
Develop strategies for coordination of academic hardware and software lifecycles and fragmented licenses across the institution to maximize fiscal and operational efficiency.
Metrics for Success
Number of systems or processes shifted toward as-designed functionality
Number of manual processes shifted toward digital solution
User satisfaction score for new platforms (survey-based)