CASE Network: Technical Universities (November 2026)-Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The first CASE network meeting for technical universities brought together advancement professionals to share CRM practices and challenges. Hosted by Wille Karnila of Aalto University, the discussion emphasized that CRM is more than a database: it depends on balancing people, processes, and technology, with strong leadership support, clear data governance, and user adoption.<br /><br />Participants discussed GDPR and prospect research, data sharing across complex university structures, procurement, and integrating separate CRM systems. Aalto’s experience highlighted the value of defining CRM ownership and master data, establishing a cross-functional steering group, and coordinating closely with IT, legal, finance, and university leadership.<br /><br />Alumni engagement was another focus. Suggestions included making registration simple, using graduation-related invitations to encourage sign-ups, and communicating a compelling reason for alumni to stay connected. Participants also noted the challenges of maintaining alumni identity after institutional mergers.<br /><br />The group plans to continue sharing resources through a Teams channel and CASE Communities, explore CRM sessions at the Nordic Summit, and meet again in January to discuss event successes and lessons learned.

Keywords

CRM practices

technical universities

data governance

GDPR compliance

alumni engagement

master data management

cross-functional steering group

user adoption

university leadership support