Implementing Digital Transformation in Public Tertiary Institutions: An Exploration of John Kotter’s Change Management Model

Abstract

This study explores John Kotter's Change Management model as guide for the implementation of 
digital transformation initiative of tertiary institutions. It analyses to what degree a well-thought
out change management can overcome resistance, offer support and stakeholder engagement, 
and facilitate sustainable rollout of digital platforms and solutions into the workings and activity 
frameworks of tertiary institutions.   The study presents Kotter's eight-step model of conceptual 
and theoretical frameworks for digital HEIs’ transformation. The study combines literature and 
empirical submissions to highlight technology-induced change management gaps in the 
universities, polytechnics and colleges of education, especially in the developing societies where 
infrastructure shortages, limited funds, and resistance hinder the implementation of digital 
initiatives. The study brings to the forefront the need for tertiary education to focus beyond 
technological innovations and embrace a systematic and explicit organizational change practices 
that involve digital coalition, competence development and enhancement, stakeholders' support 
and engagement, and digital enculturation. Incorporating the Kotter's model, tertiary education 
can overcome resistance, develop resilience, competitiveness, and quality of education in the 
digital era.