Ayshan Rovshan Mustafazada

SMART MANAGEMENT MODELS IN HIGHER EDUCATION: PERSPECTIVES ON THE TRANSITION TO DIGITAL UNIVERSITIES

Abstract. The article examines the essence of smart management models in higher education and their role in the transition to digital universities. The study demonstrates that digital transformation is not merely a technological innovation but also a strategic necessity that strengthens universities’ positions in the international competitive environment. Theoretical analysis highlights the significance of the smart campus framework, digital governance mechanisms, and data-driven decision-making models in enhancing the efficiency of higher education institutions. Empirical findings reveal that smart management approaches not only increase transparency, quality, and innovative potential in university operations but also reinforce their international competitiveness. Consequently, the research concludes that digital management practices in higher education enrich the theoretical foundations of university governance while providing practical tools for adapting to the challenges of globalization, the digital society, and sustainable development.

Keywords: management, digitalization, competitiveness, globalization, quality