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The Path Forward for Research Universities: Strategies for Financial Resilience and Research IT Innovation in an Evolving Funding Landscape

Publisher IDC
Published Mar 28, 2025
Length 24 Pages
SKU # IDC19884621

Description

This IDC Perspective outlines key cost optimization approaches, process automation strategies, technological upgrades, and infrastructure improvements to build financial resilience and accelerate academic innovation in uncertain times. As federal research funding declines, universities face mounting financial pressures that threaten research sustainability and innovation. This document explores nine strategic recommendations to help institutions modernize research IT, streamline operations, and diversify funding sources. From leveraging AI and automation to standardizing IT ecosystems and expanding shared research resources, these strategies empower research IT and academic leaders to reduce costs, enhance efficiency, and drive scientific discovery. Discover how institutions can adapt to funding challenges, optimize IT investments, and position themselves for long-term research excellence in an evolving landscape."With federal funding cuts creating financial uncertainty, institutions must act decisively to modernize research operations and create cost efficiencies," said Matthew Leger, senior research manager for IDC's Worldwide Education and EdTech Digital Strategies program. "By standardizing research IT, leveraging AI, and fostering collaboration, universities can reduce costs, accelerate discovery, and sustain long-term research excellence."

Table of Contents

24 Pages

Executive Snapshot

Situation Overview

Advice for the Technology Buyer

Indirect Versus Direct IT Cost Models

Short-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Long-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Resource Sharing and Collaboration

Short-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Long-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Alternative Funding Sources

Short-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Long-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Research IT Ecosystem Standardization and Governance

Short-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Long-Term Play

Critical Considerations

AI for Research Assistance and Support

Short-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Long-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Research Computing Infrastructure

Short-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Long-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Research Administration Process Automation

Short-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Long-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Research Data Life-Cycle Management

Short-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Long-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Free, Low-Cost, and Open Source Tools

Short-Term Play

Critical Considerations

Long-Term Play

Critical Considerations

The Importance of Change Management, Led by Research IT and Academic Leadership

Uniting Around a Shared Vision for the Future of Academic Research

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Related Research

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