Work in progress: EDEH inventory mapping

Guidelines for improving interoperability
To address these challenges, the working group conducted an inventory during the first half of 2024, mapping the tools, services, and standards used by European University Alliances. A significant 39 out of 50* alliances and numerous experts contributed to this inventory. The findings of the report will provide guidelines for improving the interoperability of higher education systems, fostering collaboration, and developing a robust, interconnected educational framework.

Challenges faced by the alliances
The initial findings of the report highlight the challenges faced by the alliances, such as limited funding and staffing, and the need for comprehensive inventories of hardware, software, and internal analyses. The report discusses key issues like the standardisation of education logistics, such as the discovery of courses and related applications of course catalogues.

Adoption of interoperability
The interoperability working group aims to deliver a framework for interoperability by mid-2025, with the report offering valuable insights towards this goal. In addition to developing the framework, the group is committed to raising awareness and encouraging the adoption of interoperability. During the Brussels workshop, various plans and ideas were launched to support this effort. One proposal was to develop a tool for institutional middle management, such as information managers, business analysts, and architects, featuring a knowledge base that offers quick references to the tools, services, and standards used across Europe.

Support desk for collaboration
Another participant suggested providing support for the operational level of educational institutions through a support desk offering concrete answers for the implementation of standardisation. Such a support desk would help connect professionals across Europe, promote collaboration, and offer support.

Want to know more?
The draft version of the report is currently under review within the hub and will be published there. Are you already curious about the report and/or other activities of the working group? Sign up for the hub via this link.

* Since 28 June 2024, there have been 64 European University Alliances. Press release: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/nL/ip_24_3542