I N D U S T R Y I N S I G H T
This shift requires a change in mindset, challenging the education sector to think beyond isolated technologies and instead adopt an integrated, holistic strategy.
At North, we’ ve partnered with leading education institutions including University of Birmingham, the University of Central Lancashire and Birmingham City University to accelerate their smart campus journeys. Collaborating with industry pioneers like Axis Communications and iPRO, renowned developers of cuttingedge camera technology, we are driving innovation in this space.
That said, we have also observed a striking disparity in technological adoption across institutions. While
Fragmented responsibilities often result in a siloed approach, preventing a unified vision for a smart campus.
some universities showcase cuttingedge innovations, many fail to apply these advancements to their own campuses. A common issue is the existence of disparate systems that do not communicate with each other, leading to inefficiencies. The solution lies in fostering interconnected platforms that bring various campus functions together. For every forward-thinking institution, countless others fall behind, compromising security, safety and the overall student experience.
Leadership is essential for driving change, and it can emerge at all levels within a university – the evolution of smart tech in a higher education campus is by no means solely the responsibility of the IT team. Fragmented responsibilities often result in a siloed approach, preventing a unified vision for a smart campus. Universities must recognise the broader potential of integrated technology to enhance the student experience, streamline operations and improve security – all while addressing growing financial pressures through smarter resource allocation.
Another critical consideration is student retention. The first-year experience plays a pivotal role in determining whether students continue their education. If the campus environment is unwelcoming or inefficient, dropout rates may rise. Thus, improving campus infrastructure is not just about convenience, it directly impacts student success and institutional viability.
A truly smart campus integrates sustainability, student experience and security into a cohesive framework, using technology as an enabler rather than an isolated solution. The conversation has begun, and now it is time for institutions to take the lead in shaping the campus of tomorrow – one that not only thinks about tech in the classroom but as a catalyst for financial prosperity. ✓
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