The Future of Higher Education and How Workflow Software Can Help

October 29, 2024
Higher ed is evolving rapidly with digital transformation and workflow software like Kuali Build. Learn how automation supports flexible, secure workflows for registrars, IT, and research teams. Discover how colleges can boost agility, improve processes, and keep pace with student needs.

Over the last few decades, technology has radically transformed the higher education landscape. We’ve seen innovations like computers, the internet, and online learning change classrooms and campuses across the country. Yet, in many ways, the traditional structure of higher education remains rooted in the past.

Today’s students still primarily pay tuition for in-person lectures, take general education courses, and largely have summers off. However, the world is shifting fast, and higher education must adapt quickly to keep pace. With the accelerated digital transformation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, colleges and universities are increasingly turning to higher ed workflow automation software to stay agile, effective, and resilient.

COVID-19’s Impact on Higher Ed Technology

Since computers first entered classrooms, higher ed IT departments have played an essential role in supporting technology. Yet, even as technology became central to campus life, less than 5% of most college budgets went to IT spending. COVID-19 changed that.

During the pandemic, higher ed institutions turned to their IT teams for innovative solutions to run fully online. As a result, automation and digital transformation have fundamentally reshaped campus operations, pushing IT from the sidelines to a central decision-making role.

Top EdTech Trends Shaping the Future of Higher Education

Education technology brought in $4.5 billion in venture capital in the first half of 2020 alone—and investments are expected to keep climbing. So, what EdTech trends are here to stay? Here are some of the key areas where technology is shaping the future of higher education.

1. Remote Learning

From video conferencing to virtual classrooms, remote learning technology has surged as institutions invested in solutions to keep classes running. As campuses shift back to in-person learning, remote and hybrid options are here to stay, enabling flexibility in student engagement and accessibility.

To boost the student learning experience, campuses are investing in digital tools that promote engagement, social interaction, and academic honesty within the virtual classroom.

2. Increased Security and Compliance

With cyber threats on the rise, institutions are facing pressure to increase data security and ensure compliance with the latest regulations. Colleges are consulting IT experts to protect student data and communicate with students about data privacy, responding to a growing demand for transparent, responsible data usage.

3. Micro-Credentials

As Gen Z weighs the value of a traditional four-year degree, micro-credentials are gaining popularity. Focused on specialized skills, these credentials are affordable, stackable, and easier to complete than a degree. By offering micro-credential programs, colleges and universities can provide students with in-demand skills that stand out in today’s job market.

4. Workflow Automation Software

One of the most impactful trends in higher ed tech is the adoption of workflow automation software. Budget constraints and stretched resources have made automation a critical tool for institutions aiming to do more with less.

With no-code platforms like Kuali Build, IT teams can quickly create customized forms and workflows that streamline processes, eliminate bottlenecks, and boost efficiency. From automating approvals to centralizing data collection, workflow software empowers schools to save time and improve security by digitizing campus processes.

5. Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI has begun transforming everything from admissions to academic advising. In higher ed, AI-powered tools help personalize student learning, provide real-time feedback, and even support campus logistics. Chatbots can answer questions, recommend resources, or even help students navigate campus. The potential for AI in higher ed is just beginning.

6. Complex Network Infrastructure

With the increase in online learning and student devices, institutions are upgrading network infrastructure to handle rising demand. Robust, reliable networks are essential for supporting laptops, smartphones, and tablets that students rely on daily. Outdoor Wi-Fi and enhanced campus connectivity are part of this push, ensuring students have the resources they need for quality learning, wherever they are.

Increasing Agility and Efficiency with Workflow Software

The pandemic has highlighted the essential role of IT in higher ed decision-making, giving technology teams a seat at the table. For institutions looking to build greater agility, efficiency, and productivity, workflow automation software like Kuali Build offers a powerful solution.

With Kuali Build’s no-code tools, colleges and universities can streamline administrative workflows, improve security, and increase transparency across departments. Kuali Build integrates easily with existing systems, making it an ideal solution for registrars, research departments, and IT offices looking to enhance student and faculty workflows. Whether you need to develop digital forms, manage complex approvals, or build entire workflows, Kuali Build is designed to help institutions succeed in a rapidly evolving world.

Embrace the Future with Kuali Build

Want to stay ahead of the curve in higher ed tech? Consider how workflow automation software like Kuali Build can enhance efficiency, increase productivity, and empower your institution to adapt to future challenges. Discover how leading institutions are using Kuali Build to power their digital transformation in a recent panel discussion with higher ed CIOs.

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