Reimagining university rankings

We observe a growing debate about the validity and methodology of commercial rankings. Universities are exploring alternatives that prioritise quality over quantity and recognise practices such as open science. User-driven alternatives to traditional rankings are gaining attention, and their integration with existing rankings is a key focus. This evolution is happening alongside efforts to reform research assessment, highlighted by the Agreement on Reforming Research Assessment signed by our association in November 2022.

Despite the criticisms of traditional rankings, said rankings continue to have a significant influence on student decisions, where academics choose to work, and how sponsors and governments allocate funding and investments (Gadd,2022, 2020). At the same time, some institutions have found ways to leverage rankings effectively for outreach and engagement.

In this context, our Task Force Benchmark and our Board of Directors held a joint workshop ‘Reimagining university rankings: exploring strategic priorities and alternatives’ on 18 June, hosted by KTH Royal Institute of Technology, in Stockholm. This workshop provided a platform for in-depth discussions on the role of commercial rankings.