Building a connected data foundation to support student success at the University of Northampton
Project at a Glance
The University of Northampton wanted to create a connected data foundation that would improve decision-making and support better outcomes for students and colleagues. Softcat and Oakland worked with the University, Microsoft and Boomi to translate its digital and data strategy into an actionable plan, identify priority use cases and develop a consolidated Microsoft Fabric-based data platform. The programme is establishing a more authoritative, governed and scalable data environment while building the University’s internal capability for future development.
Challenge
The University sought to bring together important data distributed across multiple systems, teams and processes so colleagues could make timely, evidence-based decisions with greater confidence. It wanted a consistent and trusted view of areas including student attendance, engagement and progression, supported by stronger governance and a platform that could accommodate future use cases.
Critical Success Factors:
1
Mission & purpose
UK university with a mission centred on supporting aspiration, creating opportunities and delivering impact.
2
Modern learning environment
Waterside Campus opened in 2018 as part of a modern approach to learning and student experience.
3
Digital transformation
Digital and data strategy places strong emphasis on better decision-making, improved student and staff experience, governance and capability building.
Solution
Softcat and Oakland worked with the University, Microsoft and Boomi to align the programme’s partners, technologies and delivery approach around a shared objective. Discovery helped stakeholders identify priority use cases and develop a broader roadmap, followed by a Microsoft Fabric-based data platform and integration capabilities designed to connect source systems. Softcat also provided a central point of coordination, helping the University navigate its options, access specialist expertise and manage procurement and partner engagement efficiently.
- Discovery-led approach to identify priority use cases and align delivery with the University’s digital and data strategy
- Microsoft Fabric-based data platform combined with integration capabilities to connect key systems and improve reporting foundations
- Collaborative multi-partner delivery model focused on governance, internal capability and long-term sustainability
Results
The programme is creating the foundations for more consistent, connected and evidence-based decisions across the University. Better integrated data is intended to support earlier action around student attendance, engagement, progression and welfare, while also improving planning across recruitment, course demand and retention. A centralised and governed approach will reduce duplication, clarify accountability and support more scalable, self-service reporting, with internal capability and a reusable platform helping the University pursue sustained value over time.
- Better foundations for proactive, evidence-based decisions around student engagement, retention and welfare
- Reduced fragmentation through a more central, governed and connected data environment
- Stronger internal capability and a scalable platform to support future use cases across the University
Softcat have the experience, understand the market, its key players, and how they apply to our situation. This means when we do progress to engaging the wider market, we’re a lot more prepared and it’s much easier for us.
Navinder Kaur
Head of Application Services, University of Northampton