From fixed labs to flexible learning: Leiden University’s digital leap forward

The collaboration between Leiden University and Academic Software

At the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at Leiden University, with more than 6000 students and 1700 staff members, the disappearance of fixed computer labs was a challenge. These labs were important but limited flexibility and required a lot of maintenance. The solution came in the form of an innovative software distribution platform, allowing access to the necessary software titles.

The challenge

The disappearance of fixed computer labs at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at Leiden University brought significant challenges. These labs were essential for delivering digital lessons but limited flexibility and required a lot of maintenance. Students were bound to specific times and locations to access the necessary software, leading to busy labs and limited availability.

The solution

Academic Software provided the solution through its platform, enabling students to work on their own laptops and eliminating reliance on fixed computer labs. This has made education more flexible, as students can now access the necessary software anytime and anywhere. The platform supports single sign-on and IP whitelisting, allowing students to log in and use the software easily, both on campus and at home. 

The implementation of the Academic Software Platform was seamless, thanks to excellent support and a dedicated point of contact, the Sales Manager. Their structured approach and efficient handling of all provided information helped streamline the transition for the faculty. 

The results

Since its implementation in September, the platform has been a success. Students now have access to the software anytime and anywhere, significantly improving the flexibility and efficiency of education. Collaboration with Academic Software has been smooth, with excellent support for both students and staff. This has reduced the burden on the faculty and minimised the need for extensive internal support.

The platform offers a future-proof solution, with greater control over software provision and enhanced privacy and security. All students use the same version of the software, promoting consistency and ease of use. Positive feedback from students highlights the benefits of this new approach.

In the near future, the platform will be rolled out across the entire university, allowing even more students and staff to benefit from Academic Software.

Thanks to this partnership, students and staff at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at Leiden University can now work more flexibly and efficiently. It marks an important step in modernising and improving their educational experience.