Agile Approaches to Strategic Planning and Decision-Making: Insights from European Higher Education Institutions

This study explores the application of agile practices in strategic planning and decision-making within higher education institutions (HEIs). The main objective of the research is to identify best practices and provide recommendations for encouraging greater agility within HEIs. The methodology includes case studies and interviews with 21 experts from eight universities across Europe. The findings reveal that while HEIs face challenges such as complex bureaucratic structures and long planning cycles, there are areas where agile practices can be effectively implemented. Key practices identified include strategic planning, collaboration, decision-making style, change management, lean approach, and continuous improvement. However, institutional regulations and the need for multiple stakeholder involvement make it difficult to embrace agility fully. The research suggests that shorter strategy cycles, such as annual reviews, would better align with the rapid changes in education today. This study offers valuable insights into how HEIs can integrate agile practices to improve responsiveness, flexibility, and collaboration, and it provides actionable recommendations for HEI managers to support the development of an agile culture within their institutions.