The project “Benchmarking of universities” goes back to an earlier project initiated by Martin Luther University (MLU) in Halle, which involved four faculties in addition to the rectorate. Since the end of 2010, the project network has included MLU Halle, Friedrich Schiller University (FSU) Jena, the University of Potsdam and the University of Ulm. Leipzig University participated from 2012 to 2016, and Bielefeld University has been involved since January 2020. The collaboration follows the principle of learning from and with each other and is based on a code of conduct between the universities that specifically frames the project activities.
The joint activities aim to provide a high-quality database for selected aspects of service provision:
- On the one hand, the database is used for inter-university comparisons. The aim is to provide an empirical foundation for the management of universities by comparing those units of the participating universities that are similar in terms of subject matter. This comparison relies on a methodologically sound system of indicators that has been specially developed for this purpose and is continuously adapted to developments within the universities and developments in higher education policy.
- On the other hand, the database can be the starting point for targeted analyses of the processes of performance creation, providing an improved basis for the decision-making in the internal management of a university as well as impulses for the further development of the university’s internal reporting system.
- Another important aspect is that the universities exchange information and views on current university-related topics and on university structure. This is facilitated by thematically detailed project work on the one hand and by regular meetings at the specialist level of benchmarking on the other.
The sectors teaching, research, equality and internationality are examined in greater detail. The calculation of key figures in university benchmarking is based on a full-cost approach and has its theoretical roots in economics and public management. The project will further develop and transfer knowledge on economic and governance theory, tailored to the specific needs of the participating universities.
In each project cycle, the calculation of key figures is supplemented by in-depth work on certain themes. In the current project phase, the focus is on gender monitoring/gender controlling.
The project is generally open to participation by other universities. It is currently scheduled to run until April 2022.
Further projects linked to “University Benchmarking”:
