Transformação Digital na Gestão Administrativa: estudo na Universidade Federal de Pelotas

Abstract

The processes of digitizing services have intensified in recent years, driven by the growing demand for new communication methods between the public and government entities, as well as the dissemination of information and service delivery through virtual means. This study is based on an analysis of the Digital Transformation process in the Administrative Management of the Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel), a public administration entity and a significant educational institution in the country. The general objective of this study was to analyze how the digital transformation process occurs in a public university, identifying barriers, difficulties, benefits, and opportunities. The specific objectives were to analyze the processes and conceptualize digital transformation in the context of administrative management, identify the existence of a digital transformation plan within UFPel's administrative framework and the technologies implemented, identify barriers, difficulties, and opportunities presented, and propose improvements in the digital transformation process evident in UFPel's administrative management. Document analysis, semi-structured interviews, and observations were used to verify the information. A technology manager from the institution was chosen as the first interviewee, followed by a snowball sampling strategy, resulting in a total of seven interviewees. Based on the collected information, the data were triangulated. The results revealed a lack of internalization of the digital transformation process within the institution and human and cultural barriers, such as a lack of materials and actions available to support the administrative and academic community in understanding and engaging with this area. To aid in internalization, it is suggested to open new positions for hiring staff to form teams that contribute to developing a tailored strategy for the institution. To overcome resistance and cultural change, it is proposed to conduct training events, workshops, discussion groups, and seminars to qualify the technical team and encourage community participation through knowledge sharing. Additionally, it is proposed to enhance the academic and administrative management system, Cobalto, with in-house development. The purpose of the proposed improvements is to support the institution by fostering a conducive environment and highlighting the potential of digital transformation in building dynamic capabilities that favor strategic renewal of public institutions.