Developing a Digital Maturity Model for Educational Management in Higher Education

Abstract

Digital transformation has become a strategic priority for higher education institutions in response to rapid technological advancements and increasing demands for institutional effectiveness. However, many universities still face challenges in assessing their digital maturity, particularly in educational management processes. Existing digital maturity frameworks primarily focus on technological readiness and organizational transformation, while limited attention has been given to educational management perspectives. This study aimed to develop a Digital Maturity Model for Educational Management in Higher Education by identifying and integrating key dimensions that influence institutional digital transformation. A model development research approach was employed, consisting of literature analysis, dimension identification, model construction, expert validation planning, and model refinement. The findings identified five core dimensions of digital maturity, namely Digital Governance, Digital Leadership, Data-Driven Decision Making, Digital Culture, and Educational Innovation. Based on these dimensions, a comprehensive digital maturity model was developed, accompanied by a set of indicators and five maturity levels ranging from Initial to Optimized. The proposed model emphasizes that digital maturity extends beyond technology adoption and requires the integration of managerial, organizational, and innovation capabilities to support effective educational management. The model provides a practical framework for assessing institutional digital maturity and supporting strategic planning for digital transformation initiatives. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on digital transformation in higher education and offers a foundation for future empirical validation and implementation across diverse institutional contexts.