Strategic Planning in Third-Sector Organizations

摘要: The third-sector organization has evolved as an increasingly important influence on contemporary America. This type of is one three relatively distinct groups in American society. Organizations operating the "for-profit" sector comprise first group while second and third are, respectively, government other nonprofit organizations. three-sector classification organizational useful to extent that it recognizes a division (i.e., other). A network around million organizations, contributes estimated $228.2 billion national economy. Approximately 90 Americans volunteer services these with charitable contributions United States totaling $130 (Business Week, 1995; Economist, 1991). For purposes this study, "third-sector" term will be constrained include only those organizations having voluntary status. Third-sector are experiencing fundamental shift environmental conditions (cf. Wilson, 1992; Oliver, 1991; Scott Meyer, Wolch, 1990; Young Sleeper, 1988). Harvey McCrohan (1988) identify five categories threats third-sector: (i) social, (ii) political, (iii) donor support, (iv) economic, (v) competition. Underlying each "threats" increased demand for (e.g., homelessness, substance/domestic abuse, unemployment), coupled decreased support less subsidy, tax law changes regarding deductions, underemployment, skepticism). Almost two decades ago, Hofer (1976) Wortman (1979) could foresee such concerns noted lack strategic management studies Since time, planning appears receiving increased, yet still limited, attention both practice Way America, Red Cross, Boy/Girl Scouts (Webster Wylie, 1988)) literature (Stone Crittenden, 1994). objectives research twofold. First, researchers have questioned fit between current models suggested modification corporate model or development new based contingency theory would more appropriate (Nutt, 1984; Bryson 1989). As such, we develop In model, retain terminology used adapting interpretation terms suit example, performance measured for-profit through financial results firm. measures utilized focus upon growth funding membership. Second, found variations level activity Gluck et al., 1980). logic examining processes along continuum stages recognition not all companies need use same apparatus. Thus, determines uniqueness various phases identifies characteristics most closely associated phase. article organized follows. section discusses, briefly, relates following describes methodology research. newly developed, then discussed. Following presentation levels examined. final concludes brief discussion four overview implications practitioners not-for-profit researchers. …