From Transactional to Strategic: Building Strong External Partnerships in Higher Education

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Sources(s): Community EDUCAUSE Publications
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Collaborations and Partnerships Compliance Data Governance Institutional Management IT Funding and Spending IT Governance Risk Management Strategic Planning Technology Selection Vendor Management

Abstract

Colleges and universities increasingly rely on a growing number of third parties that provide services, products, and other resources. When those entities function not simply as transactional but as partners they can help shape strategy, spur innovation, and navigate the hazards and opportunities that higher education faces. 

Further Explore this Paper's Key Findings 

  • Higher education institutions increasingly need strategic partners who share accountability and advance long-term institutional goals.
  • Growing pressures involving AI, cybersecurity, staffing, modernization, budgets, data governance, and enrollment are making external partnerships increasingly critical.
  • Partnerships often fail when institutions and providers prioritize short-term transactions over strategic alignment, sustained value, and relationship continuity.
  • Successful partners understand higher education, align with institutional missions, communicate transparently, share risks, and focus on measurable outcomes.
  • Effective partnerships require clear governance, shared accountability, ongoing evaluation, stakeholder engagement, and renewal decisions based on demonstrated strategic value.  

Explore the other resource that was developed from this work centers around strategic internal partnerships:

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