Strategic implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education (HE) is becoming essential as institutions seek to remain relevant and effective in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. The expansion of AI tools presents both transformative opportunities and significant challenges to conventional educational paradigms. This paper investigates how AI can be strategically integrated within HE by using the PDCA cycle as a part of decision support systems (DSS). Beginning with an overview of DSS, the study examines its practical applications in higher education institutions (HEIs) through different models for AI adoption. Using a bibliometric analysis of literature on “artificial intelligence”, “strategy”, and “university,” and grounded in a conceptual framework developed from a systematic review, the research highlights key strategic priorities. These include the necessity of AI adoption to follow phased roadmaps and aligns with institutional mission, often requiring dedicated leadership, planning, and governance structures as well as institutional change management.