scholarly journals Conflict Management in the Non-profit Sphere. Mapping the Conflict Management Practices of an Organization Providing Social Services

2020 ◽  
Vol 18 (2) ◽  
pp. 37-49
Author(s):  
Borbála Péntek

The present study, which focuses on conflict analysis and management, examines the causes and types of major conflicts in social service organizations through semi-structured interviews. Through in-depth interviews with ten employees at a Romanian nonprofit organization’s headquarters and by consulting on studies of key challenges of Romanian NGOs, I sought to find answers to how workplace conflicts affect nonprofits, how employees handle disagreements, and what types of conflicts are most common among employees of civil society organizations. In-depth interviews were conducted with four executives, two coordinators, and four members of the executive teams within the organization. Based on these interviews, it was revealed that the roots of the conflicts lie in the overload of bureaucratic tasks in the human resource department, the lack of motivation in the workplace and the lack of transparency of institutional decisions. These problems are most likely caused by the lack of resources in non-profit organizations in Romania. At the same time, despite the uncertainty, financial burden and bureaucracy related to the implementation of funding projects, the activities affecting the target groups are successful and based on the feedback of the employees, the reactions of the target groups are a great motivating force. Keywords: conflict, human resources, decision-making, performance, consequences, employee perspective

2018 ◽  
pp. 99-108
Author(s):  
Nataliya Nikolenko ◽  
Yana Serova

The study investigates the changes taking place in the domestic market of social services expressed in the appearance of "new players" in the form of socially oriented non-profit organizations (SO NPO) within its field in addition to public institutions for social protection and social services of the population. The authors identify the advantages and disadvantages of SO NGO compared to government organizations and social services, describe the processes of shadow economy expansion to the social services market and formation of regional "quasi-markets". The empirical part of the article is based on the data of two studies conducted in the form of indepth interviews. First, with experts on "Practices of interaction and prospects of cooperation between NPO and government organizations of social services in the Volgograd region", N = 52 (27 representatives of the public sector, 25 representatives of NPO, January-March 2018). Then with recipients of social services from government organizations and clients of SO NPO on the theme "Availability and quality of paid and free social services provided in the Volgograd region for retiring aged women" N = 46, 60 years and older (21 people-clients of SO NPO, 25 people-recipients of social services. services, October 2017 – January 2018). The analysis of these in-depth interviews with experts allowed to draw the following conclusions. There is a duplication of functions of the organizations of public and non-public sectors providing social services to the population. The activities of modern SO NPO operating in the social services market contain innovative and commercial components. The expansion of the "platform" of the social services market does not yet lead to full competition between organizations, encouraging them to constantly improve the quality of services. The analysis of in-depth interviews with recipients of social services from government organizations and customers of SO NPO showed that the commercialization of activities of SO NPO does not make social services more accessible to those who are in need of them. There is the necessity of changes in the way social services are being provided in the Volgograd region as they do not meet the needs of women of retirement age, do not take into account their level of income and material well-being.


2019 ◽  
Vol 12 (6) ◽  
pp. 1004-1027 ◽  
Author(s):  
Muhammad Bilal ◽  
Ahamed Kameel Mydin Meera ◽  
Dzuljastri Abdul Razak

Purpose This study aims to examine the issues and challenges in contemporary affordable public housing schemes and proposes an alternative affordable public housing model for low- and middle-income households in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach The paper applied qualitative research method. Semi-structured in-depth interviews with four government officials were conducted to understand the provision, framework and working mechanism of selected affordable public housing schemes. A focus group with nine participants was conducted with low- and middle-income households to validate pertaining residential issues and problems in affordable public housing schemes. Findings The overall findings reveal that the growing plights of unaffordability, poor maintenance and mismanagement have undermined the performance of affordable public housing schemes in Malaysia. The paper indicates that Islamic Public–Private Housing Co-operative Model (IPHCM) possibly has a comparative advantage in its design and operation and therefore can be implemented as an alternative model to address these issues in contemporary affordable public housing schemes in Malaysia. The findings also offer guidelines to government officials and managers of public housing schemes to implement the IPHCM model that can help in reducing the financial burden on low- and middle-income households, improving maintenance work and enforcing effective management practices with residents’ participation. Research limitations/implications The paper is limited to develop a new Shariah-compliant affordable public housing model. The paper presents a design and defines the underlying Shariah concept and contracts and their working mechanisms in the proposed model. The paper has not considered other related areas in the development of IPHCM model including Shariah and subject matter expert’s perspective, consumer behavioural intention, legal and regulatory requirements. Originality/value The paper has relevance for policymakers and government institutions offering affordable public housing schemes to ensure successful deliverability of sustainable and affordable public housing for low- and middle-income households in Malaysia.


2020 ◽  
Vol 28 (3) ◽  
pp. 515-542
Author(s):  
Jayanthi Kumarasiri ◽  
Sumit Lodhia

Purpose This study aims to explore how large Australian companies in emission intensive industries perceived the introduction of the Carbon Tax as an approach to carbon emissions regulation and as a tool for accountability. It also investigates the influence of perceptions of the new tax on the internal carbon emissions management practices and the motivations for such actions. Design/methodology/approach This study draws on transaction cost theory and legitimacy theory to address corporate perceptions, responses and motivations in relation to the Carbon Tax. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 senior managers directly responsible for the carbon emissions management of their companies. Findings The study found that the Carbon Tax, viewed by the high-emitting companies as a heavy financial burden, had a significant influence on moderating organisational legitimacy seeking behaviours. It is evident that the transaction cost issues in the form of the carbon pricing requirement has led to a change of focus to “management” rather than merely reporting to external stakeholders. This influenced companies to change their behaviour with the potential to internalise previous externalities of carbon pollution. Research limitations/implications This research highlights that a pricing signal in emissions regulations is essential in conjunction with external pressures to effectively stimulate emissions management actions in companies. It extends our understanding of legitimacy theory by suggesting that a mandatory pricing mechanism as explained by transaction cost economics has the potential to lead to actual changes in corporate behaviour through a focus on management rather than reporting. Practical implications The study highlights the important elements of any effective emissions policy designed to encourage strong emissions management actions from companies. Based on the findings of the study, it is evident that the Carbon Tax was a very effective mechanism in driving emission management actions, despite the general perception that any deficiencies associated with such a price mechanism could have a negative effect on the economy. Social implications Climate change is a critical issue for the modern society and this study discussed a short-lived policy tool in the Australian context that had the potential to change corporate behaviour in relation to carbon management. Originality/value This study is among the very few studies that have examined the influence of the Carbon Tax on internal emissions management practices of companies, and therefore, provides a unique dataset of corporate responses to the Carbon Tax. Given the short time frame that the Carbon Tax was in operation, the study enhances our understanding of the influence the Carbon Tax had on companies responsible for high greenhouse gas emissions.


2019 ◽  
Vol 2 (4) ◽  
pp. 267-275
Author(s):  
Sung Suk Kim ◽  
Jacob Donald Tan ◽  
Rita Juliana ◽  
John Tampil Purba

This study aims to explore the financial management practices ofsmall-and-medium-enterprises (SMEs) in the Greater Jakarta (Jabodetabek). We investigate into 3 SME cases by conducting the semi-structured interviews with the owner-managers and using direct observations to know the practices of financial management of SMEs. Through the research, we have found six propositions related to the practice of short-term financial management. They apply bootstraps to ensure availability of working capital. They set aside cash reserves from retained earnings and minimize loans from financial institutions. They have the computerized system to track receivables facilitating working capital needs. They keep theirinventory control efficient to manage working capital. They screen customers using transactional records and reputations to minimize the risk of bad debts.


2020 ◽  
Vol 7 (5) ◽  
pp. 9-20
Author(s):  
Claudia Bale

Objective: The aim of this mixed-methods study is to capture and understand impoverished Guatemalan community members’ perspectives of their own health needs on a community level in order to guide Hope of Life (HOL) Non-Profit organization’s health promotion interventions in the villages they serve. Methods: A modified health needs assessment survey was conducted with 96 participants from four impoverished villages in the department of Zacapa, Guatemala. Survey responses were analyzed for significant differences in 4-item individual, family, and community health scores across demographic variables and significant correlations with reported personal health conditions and children’s health conditions. Five semi-structured interviews were also conducted with community leaders from three of the villages surveyed. Interviews were audio recorded and responses were transcribed verbatim and translated from Spanish to English. Thematic analysis using HyperRESEARCH qualitative analysis software version 4.5.0. was conducted to identify major themes. Results: The mean age of the 96 participants surveyed was 40.4 years and the majority were women, married or in Union, and have children. Women reported a significantly lower individual and family health score than men. The most rural village included in the study had significantly lower family health scores than the three sub-urban villages in the study. Among the personal health problems reported by participants, alcohol consumption, dental problems, and malnutrition were significant predictors of lower individual health scores. Themes that emerged from the interview analysis included the greatest community health needs, perceived negative community health behaviors, barriers to health care access, HOL’s impact, and suggestions for community health promotion.   Conclusion: The results of this study reveal many unmet health needs and barriers to healthcare that Guatemalan village communities face. Community-based participatory research using a mixed approach voices communities’ perspective on their perceived needs and is an important tool to guide non-profit aid and intervention serving impoverished communities.


Author(s):  
Ivonne R. G. Kaya ◽  
Fildo De Lima

Tourism has become one of the major players in ‎international commerce and represents one of the main income ‎sources for many developing countries at the same time. These dynamics have turned tourism into a key driver for socio-‎economic progress.‎ This article described the potential of tourism attraction and factor affecting the development of marine tourism area in the utilization zone of Manusela National Park. Semi-structured interviews, in-depth interviews and participant observations were conducted with respondent (n=110) in Bellarizky, Air Belanda, Ora Beach and Lizar Bahari resort. The potential of tourist attractions in the utilization zone of Manusela National Park is as a snorkeling, diving and point of view. Factors affecting the development are service, transportation, supporting facilities and tourism attractions.


Author(s):  
Wina Lova Riza

 This study aims to determine the psychological dynamics of former drug addicts, starting from drug abuse until they become addicted, deciding to stop using them. This study uses a qualitative approach, the subject or informant is determined using a non-probability sampling technique with a purposive sampling type based on predetermined criteria, which involves one informant, namely a male (F) aged 42 years. Data collection methods used in this study are in-depth interviews (in depth interviews), where researchers will interview informants with semi-structured interviews. In addition, researchers also used observation and psychological tests, which are graphic tests in the form of DAM (Draw a Man) and BAUM (tree drawing) tests, and intelligence tests using WAIS. The data analysis technique used is case study analysis of case / incident patterns. Based on the results of research F became a drug addict because of the learning process, where the enjoyment and lack of parental supervision is a reinforcement to continue using drugs. Generalization of people, places, pleasure makes it difficult for F to stop using drugs.   Keywords: Psychological Dynamics, Drug Addicts. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui dinamika psikologis mantan pecandu napza, dimulai dari awal menyalahgunan napza hingga menjadi kecanduan, memutuskan untuk berhenti memakai. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif, Subjek atau informan ditentukan dengan menggunakan tehnik sampling non-probability sampling dengan tipe purposive sampling berdasarkan kriteria yang telah ditentukan, yaitu melibatkan satu informan, yaitu laki-laki (F) yang berusia 42 tahun. Metode pengumpulan data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah dengan wawancara secara mendalam (in depth interview), dimana peneliti akan menwawancarai informan dengan wawancara semi terstruktur. Selain itu peneliti juga menggunakan observasi serta menggunakan tes-tes psikologi, yaitu tes grafis berupa tes DAM (Draw a Man) dan BAUM (tes menggambar pohon), serta tes inteligensi dengan menggunakan WAIS. Tehnik analisis data yang digunakan adalah menggunakan analisis studi kasus pola kasus/kejadian. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian F menjadi pecandu narkoba karena adanya proses belajar, dimana kenikmatan dan kurangnya pengawasan orang tua merupakan reinforcement untuk terus menggunakan napza. Adanya generalisasi terhadap people, place, pleasure menyebabkan F sulit untuk berhenti menggunakan napza. Kata Kunci: Dinamika Psikologis, Mantan Pengguna Napza


2020 ◽  
Vol 3 (7) ◽  
pp. 98-102
Author(s):  
M. V. DUBROVA ◽  
◽  
N. N. ZHILINA ◽  

The relevance of the article is determined by the fact that in Russia there is no effective mechanism of state support for the activities of non-profit organizations in the field of “green Finance”. The role of non-profit organizations is leveled, which can become a serious help in solving economic problems, in particular, the problems of recycling and processing of secondary raw materials, the placement of industrial waste and household garbage, and landscaping of large megacities. The main financial burden in the field of “green economy” falls on States and large enterprises. Meanwhile, we cannot ignore the important role of non-profit organizations that can not only draw attention to environmental problems to the public, but also offer their own measures to solve environmental problems. In this regard, it becomes relevant to consider the participation of non-profit organizations in the implementation of environmental projects by attracting “green Finance”.


2020 ◽  
Vol 1 (8) ◽  
pp. 119-123
Author(s):  
M. V. DUBROVA ◽  
◽  
N. N. ZHILINA ◽  

he relevance of the article is determined by the fact that in Russia there is no effective mechanism of state support for the activities of non-profit organizations in the field of «green Finance». The role of non-profit organizations is leveled, which can become a serious help in solving economic problems, in particular, the problems of recycling and processing of secondary raw materials, the placement of industrial waste and household garbage, and landscaping of large megacities. The main financial burden in the field of «green economy» falls on States and large enterprises. Meanwhile, we cannot ignore the important role of non-profit organizations that can not only draw attention to environmental problems to the public, but also offer their own measures to solve environmental problems. In this regard, it becomes relevant to consider the participation of non-profit organizations in the implementation of environmental projects by attracting «green Finance».


2020 ◽  
Vol 79 (Suppl 1) ◽  
pp. 1951.1-1951
Author(s):  
D. Berkovic ◽  
D. Ayton ◽  
A. M. Briggs ◽  
I. Ackerman

Background:The financial experience faced by working-age people with arthritis includes living below the poverty line for many (1). Financial distress amongst people with arthritis is known to contribute to poorer health outcomes, including high psychological distress and more severe pain (2). Despite the demonstrated societal cost of arthritis care and management, the personal costs borne by the individual are not well understood in different health systems (3).Objectives:To explore the perceived financial impacts of living with arthritis amongst working-age individuals aged 18 – 50 years in Australia.Methods:A qualitative descriptive study design was used. Participants with inflammatory arthritis or osteoarthritis were recruited from the community, including urban and rural settings. An interview schedule was developed, informed by existing literature (4), which was piloted prior to data collection. Deductive and inductive coding techniques were used to identify financial-related themes arising from the data.Results:Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 younger people (90% female) with a mix of arthritis conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Four themes were identified: direct arthritis-attributable medical costs, indirect arthritis-attributable costs, insurance and pension costs, and broader financial impacts on the family. Non-subsidised costs were frequently referenced by participants as burdensome, and existed even within the publically-funded healthcare system. Financial distress was characterised by participants as chronic, onerous for the entire family, and associated with exacerbation of physical symptoms.Conclusion:People with arthritis and of working age experience significant arthritis-attributable financial burden and related distress. Financial concerns should be actively identified and considered within shared clinical decision making, in order to provide more patient-centred care for these individuals.References:[1]Rios R, Zautra AJ. (2011). Socioeconomic Disparities in Pain: The Role of Economic Hardship and Daily Financial Worry. Health Psychol. 30(1) 58-66.[2]Yilmaz V, Umay E, Gundogdu I, Kaaahmet ZO, Ozturk AE. (2017). Rheumatoid Arthritis: Are psychological factors effective in disease flare? Eur J Rheumatol. 4(2) 127-132.[3]Schofield D, Rupendra S, Cunich C. Counting the Cost Part 2: Economic Costs: The current and future burden of arthritis. The University of Sydney: Arthritis Australia; 2016.[4]Ackerman IN, Kemp JL, Crossley KM, Culvenor AG, Hinman RS. (2017). Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis Affects Younger People, Too. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 47(2) 67-79.Disclosure of Interests:None declared


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