Executive Summary

The University of Galway’s Digital Strategy 2026–2031 sets out a bold and transformative vision for how digital capabilities will empower our institution to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Rooted in the University’s overarching strategic priorities: Distinctive Research Impact, Education for the Future, and an Effective and  sustainable Organisation that Empowers our People, this strategy articulates a digital future that is inclusive, innovative, and aligned with our academic mission.

At the heart of this strategy is a commitment to Enterprise IT Governance, Digital Transformation, and Data as an Enabler - three strategic themes that emerged from extensive consultation with stakeholders across the University community. These themes are underpinned by a set of guiding principles that include governance, operational excellence, managed data, cybersecurity, innovation, and value for money. Together, they form a coherent framework for delivering measurable impact through technology.

The strategy is not merely aspirational; it is operationalised through a detailed three-year ICT Roadmap that outlines high-level actions and yearly initiatives from 2026 to 2028. These include the implementation of a next-generation IT operating model, the establishment of a Digital Governance Committee, the rollout of a cloud-first strategy, and the development of AI and automation capabilities to support teaching, research, and professional services.

Central to the delivery of this strategy is Information Solutions and Services (ISS), which is positioned as a centre of excellence within the University. ISS plays a pivotal role in enabling strategic goals by providing resilient, secure, and innovative digital infrastructure and services. Its mission - empowering our University community through strategic data and secure and resilient technologies within a knowledge-based and governance-centric operating model - reflects its integral role in shaping the University’s digital future.

ISS work is guided by a robust operating model and a culture of continuous improvement, as evidenced by its leadership in enterprise architecture, project management, and service delivery. The unit’s strategic alignment with University priorities ensures that digital investments are not only technically sound but also mission driven and impact-focused.

This Digital Strategy is both a roadmap and a call to action. It invites all members of the University community to engage with digital transformation as a shared endeavour, one that will enhance our collective capacity to teach, learn, discover, and serve.