Increased enrollment, student success and alumni engagement are among the cited benefits of personalized, data-driven communication.

Now working at the nexus of higher ed and technology, former Microsoft and Cisco exec Laura Ipsen says new role is a "bit of a homecoming to me."

A survey released by Ellucian found that a majority of universities are investing in data analytics programs to improve operational efficiency.

Tech-savvy reputation is a key factor for 9 in 10 students when applying to colleges, but schools need to do more, Ellucian study concludes.​