Towards a Collaborative Framework for the Implementation of Digital Transformation Processes in Higher Education Institutions: A Comparative Analysis

This study conducts a systematic literature review to analyze existing models of digital transformation in higher education institutions and propose a collaborative framework to support the implementation of digital transformation processes in their mission functions. Using the PRISMA methodology, 95 articles were initially identified, of which 15 were selected for detailed analysis. The results reveal four main categories of models: digital maturity, data governance, digital collaboration, and technological adoption. Of the 15 studies analyzed, digital maturity models are the most prevalent (6 studies), but only 5 specifically address the Latin American context, where resource constraints and institutional resistance hinder the progress of digital transformation. The findings evidence the absence of standardized measurement criteria to assess digital maturity and scarce research on collaborative approaches in university digital transformation. In response to these gaps, this study proposes a collaborative framework that integrates digital maturity assessment, data governance strategies, and inter-institutional cooperation for sustainable implementation. The framework emphasizes capacity building, strategic partnership building, and governance policy development. This research contributes to the academic debate by consolidating the most effective elements of the various models and offering a structured approach tailored to higher education institutions in Latin America and other emerging economies. Future research is suggested to empirically validate the proposed framework and develop standardized metrics for digital maturity.