Strategy and policy

As a key central provider of digital and information services for the University, IT Services is responsible for developing and implementing policies and strategies.

We work closely with divisions, departments and colleges - including IT support staff across the University - to support effective delivery of the digital strategy. Our goal is to make sure that staff and students are equipped with the IT support, skills and services they need, to support Oxford's mission of advancing teaching and research and their dissemination by every means..  

We are separate from, but work closely with, the Digital Governance Unit (DGU) (requires SSO), which oversees how digital and information activity is managed across the University, leading on strategy and standards, digital architecture and innovation, digital transformation, strategic digital partnerships and digital capabilities strategy, AI governance, and establishing major new digital initiatives.

Policies and guidelines

Anyone using the University’s IT systems – including staff, students, and visitors – must follow the IT Regulations (sometimes called IT Rules or IT Regs).

The IT Regulations explain:

• How University IT systems should be used 
• The rules and policies on specific topics such as data protection, cloud services, and social media 
• The need to comply with external legal requirements 

There are also additional policies, standards, procedures, and guidelines to help people follow these regulations.

Digital Governance

Information and Digital Committee (IDC)

Senior leaders responsible for digital strategy and policy meet as the Information and Digital Committee (IDC), this includes representatives from IT Services and the DGU. The IDC ensures that digital services effectively support the University’s aim to remain a world-leading research institution.

The IDC reports to the Oxford University Council, which is the University’s main decision-making body.

Digital Portfolios

The University organises its digital and information services into five digital portfolios, each with a digital portfolio committee that reports to the IDC. IT Services supports each of these portfolios, with a particular focus on delivering activity in the Technology Portfolio.

Our digital portfolios are:

• Research 
• Education 
• Administration 
• Engagement & Dissemination 
• Technology 

Digital Governance Unit

The Digital Governance Unit (DGU) provides independent support, monitoring and evaluation, and assurance, and champions innovation across the digital portfolios, to enable the University's digital ambitions.

Both IT Services and the DGU report to the Chief Digital & Information Officer (CDIO).