ACCELERATING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN HIGHER EDUCATION WITH ROBOTIC PROCESS AUTOMATION

Abstract

Although the process of digitization in higher education began a long time ago, unfortunately, as various studies have pointed out, many higher education institutions are not yet fully prepared, facing challenges associated with the need for accelerated digitization caused by pandemic. However, the COVID-19 crisis has provided an opportunity to find digital solutions that are inexpensive and can be applied as soon as possible. Leveraging digital development opportunities in education is supported by emerging technologies. In this regard, this paper aims to present how Robotic Process Automation (RPA) technology can help higher education (HE) institutions in their journey of digital transformation, taking into account the different perspectives of teachers and students, researchers, and administrative staff. Although currently there are some studies and scientific papers dealing with the adoption of RPA to solve some of the issues related to higher education and to support teachers, there is little previous research on how RPA-based solutions could help streamline researchers' activities, administrative staff and students. According to a report published by Gartner, Inc. in September 2020, global RPA software revenues are expected to reach $ 1.89 billion in 2021, registering an increase of 19.5% over 2020. Moreover, various researchers estimated that the global RPA market will continue to grow by double digits until 2024. The paper presents some of the main possibilities that open up with the application of such solutions in higher education institutions. Moreover, we present some of the key issues and challenges posed by the adoption of RPA in higher education. In order to ensure the adoption of RPA, several solutions need to be taken into consideration by different higher education stakeholders. For instance, a digital transformation strategy should be developed, to encourage open-mindedness towards automation. Given the potential that RPA offers for higher education institutions, we estimate the intensification of RPA adoption in higher education.