Cloud migration is a game-changer for higher education and clear benefits are being believed. The unique needs of colleges and universities are to make the process far from straightforward.
Higher education institutions can benefit from the cloud’s ability to scale and save costs. Cloud platforms provide flexibility and allow students to access materials from anywhere. Researchers can collaborate across universities and IT departments can shift infrastructure management to external providers. With cyberattacks on universities rising by 70% between 2022 and 2023, cloud services add an extra layer of security.
These benefits need to be tempered with the understanding that higher education faces unique challenges in cloud adoption. Moving sensitive student and research data to the cloud means surrendering a degree of control. It is not that the cloud is inherently less secure, but when institutions hand over data management to third parties, compliance with stringent privacy regulations can become more complicated. It is significant when you consider the HECA compliance matrix.
There is also a matter of connectivity. The cloud can facilitate remote learning, but only when reliable internet access is in place. Cloud-based learning platforms can become more of a liability than a benefit for students and staff in regions with poor connectivity.
Cost is another concern as hidden expenses can quickly add up to the cost. Cloud services may turn out to be less cost-effective in the long run. Universities need to approach them with a careful financial lens.
Let us not forget the migration process itself. Universities with small, overworked IT departments can find cloud migration overwhelming. Planning and executing a seamless transition demands time, expertise and resources.
