Digital Readiness in European Higher Education Institutions: a Data-driven Framework Guided by Institutional and Instructional Analytics

We applied for this project because we recognized an urgent need for trustworthy methods to assess and enhance the digital readiness of universities—methods that move past self-reported questionnaires. We found that many existing approaches leaned too heavily on subjective data. At the same time, universities are producing large amounts of instructional and institutional data through systems like learning management and student information systems. By exploiting these resources, we saw an opportunity to derive more objective insights into how well-prepared institutions really are to implement and sustain digital services. Additionally, we aimed to identify and propose targeted interventions—such as improved staff training and upgraded digital infrastructure—to bridge the gaps in digital readiness. In essence, our project is driven by a commitment to help European universities systematically assess, improve, and future-proof their digital service capabilities, by providing clear, objective measures of their progress.

Our primary objective was to develop and validate a robust digital readiness framework for higher education institutions, implemented as an open-source web platform. This framework is based on objective, data-driven indicators derived from actual institutional and instructional practices. Specifically, we aimed to: Define Measurable Dimensions: Establish a set of quantifiable dimensions—such as policies, governance, teaching and learning, and digital infrastructure—that address the multifaceted challenges of digital transformation, forming the DigiReady+ framework. Develop Software Tools: Build a software tool with accompanying Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) designed to extract and process data from various institutional information systems (e.g., usage analytics) in order to measure the readiness indicators. Construct a Knowledge Repository: Create an open, expandable repository that aggregates relevant documents, guidelines, and best practices to support assessment and informed decision-making. Rigorously test the framework and toolkit across diverse European higher education contexts, refining the methodology based on empirical findings, assessing stakeholders' acceptance.

1) DigiReady+ Framework: A multidimensional model for measuring institutional digital readiness, combining established self-assessment rubrics with data-driven indicators. The framework details critical success factors along seven key dimensions. 2) Open-Source Toolkit and APIs: The finalized DigiReady+ software (openly licensed, see https://udready.gunet.gr) offers customizable dashboards for different stakeholder groups (policy makers, administrators, etc.). It enables real-time data analysis, automatic generation of readiness scores, and produces tailored recommendations for improvement. 3) Knowledge Repository: We curated a shared repository containing documents on effective online teaching practices, staff-training materials, institutional analytics case studies, and sample datasets. This living resource supports institutions as they address identified gaps in their digital capacity. This repository can be accessed through https://digiready.gsic.uva.es 4) Evidence of Impact: Pilot evaluations demonstrated use of the framework and tools in the case of several European universities. Participating universities reported on how, using the DigiReady+ approach, they can obtain clearer insight into how institutional policies, infrastructure, and teaching practices intersect to support (or hinder) digital readiness. 5) Sustainability and Adoption: Through collaboration with EDEN’s network and GUNET’s user base, multiple external institutions learned about DigiReady+ and used its framework participating in structured evaluation activities and learning/teaching events. The open licensing and robust validation make ongoing use and further customization feasible, extending the project’s impact well beyond the initial partnership.