Challenges in Managing Nonprofit Organizations: A Research Overview
International Journal of Voluntary and Nonprofit Organizations, Vol. 15, No. 2, p. 101-116, June 2004
20 Pages Posted: 12 Sep 2006
Abstract
The topic of "management" and nonprofit organizations (NPOs) continues to fascinate scholars. This paper draws on varying theoretical perspectives to explore their respective contributions to our knowledge of NPOs. The two longstanding and contrasting disciplines of economics and sociology have contributed most, traditionally, to the study of NPOs. However, neither of these disciplines has resolved all the dilemmas associated with NPOs. The standard economic model does not apply well to the distinctive non-market situation of NPOs. The sociological perspectives offer interesting insight, but fail to develop plans of action for NPOs. However, both of these traditional perspectives are starting to be eclipsed by the focus on marketing research.
Keywords: NPO research, economics, sociology, marketing
JEL Classification: L30, M40, M46, M48, M31
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation