Digital transformation of higher education institutions (HEIs) is of paramount importance in today’s technology-driven world. However, there are numerous barriers that hinder the successful implementation of digital transformation initiatives in HEIs. In this article, we identify and classify these barriers based on a systematic literature review. The findings reveal twenty distinct barriers that inhibit digital transformation in higher education. These were then organised into six broad categories, namely environmental, strategic, organisational, technological, people-related and cultural. The study provides a comprehensive understanding of the barriers faced, facilitating the development of effective strategies and interventions. Our analysis provides valuable information for higher education institutions, policy makers and stakeholders involved in digital transformation initiatives.

Digital transformation has emerged as a pervasive force in today’s rapidly evolving world, touching almost every sector and industry. In the higher education sector, in which education, research, and knowledge dissemination hold paramount significance for society, the notion of digital transformation per se becomes particularly important. This paper focuses specifically on higher education, acknowledging that it exists in a broader environment. In this work, qualitative methods were applied to explore the meaning and scope of digital transformation in higher education institutions. The systematic literature review formed the basis for in-depth interviews with experts in the discipline to explore the meaning and scope of digital transformation in higher education institutions. Then, for the purpose of preparing the case study, the concepts that emerged from the systematic literature review and interviews with experts were grouped together through a keyword-based pattern. Lastly, a case study was conducted at a Greek university with the aim of better understanding the way in which university members of a particular higher education institution perceive the meaning and scope of digital transformation. Our analysis provides valuable insights into higher education institutions for decision-makers and those involved in digital transformation initiatives, offering a comprehensive definition of digital transformation in higher education institutions. Finally, this paper can also serve as a basis for researchers who are interested in defining the meaning and scope of digital transformation in their own research fields.

Digital transformation is ubiquitous, affecting all aspects of human life and benefiting the performance of organisations. Existing literature has shown that implementing digital transformation in higher education institutions remains a challenge. HEIs are unaccustomed to the radical shifts of this transformation and the course of digital transformation in higher education faces several barriers. These barriers impede organisations from realising the potential benefits of in universities. Consequently, the barriers were categorised into contextual, social, technical, and cultural. The aim of this study is to identify and categorise the barriers to digital transformation in HEIs digital transformation. For HEIs fostering digital transformation, understanding the barriers is crucial to accomplishing it. This study has examined existing barriers that higher education institutions need to consider in their digital transformation journey. To that end, a systematic literature review was conducted on the barriers of digital transformation. We contribute in providing a basic understanding of possible barriers in order to overcome them and improve the likelihood of success.