QUT embarks on IT transformation

QUT has revealed plans to transform its IT function, bringing technology and audio-visual services together under a "single university-wide model".

The digital wall at QUT's HiQ

The IT transformation, which is underway, is a component of a much larger-scale transformation effort to overhaul the way the university operates, and "in particular, the way in which it provides services for both students and staff."

A QUT spokesperson told iTnews the transformation centres on “providing a more personalised, customer-focused approach” to its IT services, including the implementation of a single university-wide delivery model.

“As with all large organisations, QUT is seeking to keep pace with digital developments,” the spokesperson said.

“Among the activities of the IT transformation program will be an increased focus on cybersecurity, strengthening and embedding our enterprise architecture capability, and a program of enterprise business process improvement.”

The university is currently in the early stages of updating its IT functions, but said it will remain a focus for the next two years.

One project already delivered as part of the transformation is the HiQ digital student services hub, which launched last year.

It features a 42 square metre digital wall that enables multiple students to connect simultaneously with digital content through the use of gestures and swipes registered via Kinect cameras.

The university is currently recruiting a director for its Learning Environments and Technology Services (LETS) division, who will lead the IT transformation.

On top of delivering the IT transformation, the LETS director also looks after client and desktop computing services for an environment of 17,000 staff and student computers.

The director reports into deputy vice-chancellor for Technology, Information and Library Services, Judy Stokker.

The QUT spokesperson declined to comment on who had left the director role.