Open universities face an unprecedented future of uncertainty, competition, disruption, and mission ambiguity. Many institutions are considering a strategic reset and restructuring of their primary missions to become more responsive and agile in meeting the needs of employers, students, and funding reductions, as well as a competitive landscape dominated by online delivery and innovations in AI. This article argues for the creation of a formal taxonomy for classifying different types of open universities./ Stated more succinctly, the author argues that an open university taxonomy would provide greater mission clarity; realignment with societal, government and employer needs; reassessment of the institutional credential continuum; a catalyst for targeting key market niches within a national footprint; alternative funding and budgeting models; and improved academic quality. In conclusion, a taxonomy would serve as a vital catalyst for improving communication among open universities and leaders, expanding strategic thinking about market differentiation, and promoting innovations and partnerships that will benefit all open university stakeholders.
Don Olcott (Wed,) studied this question.