Strategic framework for IT education and research at Sofia University

Purpose: The paper focuses on the challenges for Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics (FMI) of Sofia University. It tries to provide an answer to the main questions - how to use the best practice of a leading universities in order to link the main research and academic faculty goals to specific problems to be planed and implemented; how to support the faculty executives for making better decisions, and resource allocation choices. The purpose of the paper is to present the FMI approach and the FMI strategy maps for research and education. Design/methodology/approach: The authors examined several scientific methods and techniques used in strategic management, and created their own approach for modeling, design and implementation in education and research environment, which is presented in the paper. Findings: The main findings of a SWOT analysis, modeling and environmental survey are given in the paper. It presents the strategic priorities and the challenges for FMI to keep its position as a leading research and education centre in ICT in Bulgaria and to compete in the global educational environment. Practical implications: The authors believe that the described model and strategy will support FMI and its staff to take strategic management decisions, to focus their efforts on the most relevant topics, and to create competitive educational and research environment. Originality/value: The paper shows how to develop the faculty strategy. It demonstrates clearly that academic research and education processes can achieve significant improvements in cost, quality and service using a strategic management approach. The added value of the FMI strategy is in integrating knowledge, experience, best practices and tools within one new master program design. The FMI approach described in the paper can be used for strategic management in universities and research organisations.