The Durban University of Technology (DUT) is proud of its continued contribution to global research dialogue, as Dr Louis du Plessis, Quality Specialist for Postgraduate Studies, presented at the Tomorrow Today in Research (TTIR) 2026 South Africa event, hosted at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. He shared insights on the role of institutional data in advancing research impact and strategic decision-making in higher education.
Presenting on “Harnessing Research Data for Strategic Impact,” Dr du Plessis explored the growing centrality of institutional data in shaping research performance, demonstrating impact, and strengthening strategic decision-making within higher education systems.
His presentation highlighted the evolving research landscape, where quality, integrity, collaboration, and digital competence are increasingly critical to impact-driven scholarship. He noted that contemporary research evaluation is no longer limited to academic outputs alone, but increasingly considers societal, economic, and institutional contributions, requiring robust data systems to evidence and support such impact.
A key focus of his presentation was the relationship between research impact and institutional data. Dr du Plessis emphasised that credible and integrated data enables universities to monitor performance, demonstrate public value, and respond effectively to national priorities, funding requirements, and stakeholder expectations.
Drawing on DUT’s ongoing digital transformation journey, he reflected on the Institution’s transition from fragmented reporting systems towards more integrated and outward-facing research management platforms. He noted that this shift supports improved collaboration, enhanced visibility, and greater innovation within the research environment.
He further highlighted that in an increasingly competitive and resource-constrained higher education landscape, institutions must view data not only as a tool for compliance and reporting, but as a strategic asset that strengthens reputation, mitigates risk, and unlocks opportunities for collaboration and third-stream income generation.
The TTIR 2026 event brought together academic leaders, research managers, librarians, and policymakers to examine how artificial intelligence and data-driven approaches are reshaping higher education and global research systems.
Dr du Plessis’s contribution underscored the importance of aligning institutional data, systems, and strategy to ensure that research delivers meaningful, measurable, and sustainable impact in addressing societal challenges.
Pictured: Left to Right: Anne-Catherine Rota, Elsevier (France) Strategic Engagement Manager Europe, Middle East and Africa; Dr Louis du Plessis; Kaveh Samadi, Elsevier (Netherlands) Software Solution Advisor – Research Intelligence; and Diaa Medhat, Elsevier (UAE) Solutions Manager – Middle East and Africa.
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