Student data systems and GovTech apps will increase competition and performance measurement in higher education

Current debates in higher education policy have drawn attention to the significant impacts of marketisation, metrics, and performance management on the sector. Ben Williamson argues that a restructuring of the data infrastructure is shaping these HE trends. An examination of the HE data infrastructure reveals the political aspirations coded into its architecture, the actors involved in its production, and its practical effects. The UK HE data infrastructure is about to get a massive upgrade, increasing competition, measurement, and consumer ranking through data platforms, dashboards, and new GovTech applications.