Digital Design Considerations for Volunteer Recruitment

Abstract

Non-profit organisations may find it difficult to demonstrate to potential volunteers what is required in their voluntary roleresulting in a mismatch between expectations and reality for volunteers. This mismatch could be perceived as a psychological contract breach. We interviewed 18 volunteers and 7 coordinators about their experiences and expectations in order to understand how the experience of volunteers can better be captured and communicated. Further, we wished to consider how future digital platforms might capture important elements of the volunteer experience to better support recruitment, retention and recognition. We present our findings and discuss digital platform implications around the four implicit 'promises' of volunteering: the social promise, the opportunity promise, the value promise and the organisational citizenship promise. We add to literature exploring the voluntary sector by assessing the feasibility of digital interventions to support various aspects of volunteer and coordinator roles.

Infrastructures for Virtual Volunteering at Online Music Festivals

“…Kapsammer et al [28] identify three common weakness of VMS: data being stored in a proprietary manner; recommendations not being based on competencies and social relationships; and a lack of long-term mechanisms for sustaining personal development. Thomas et al [54] argue that the design of VMS should better bridge the gap between the expectations of volunteers and the realities of volunteer roles.…”

Med-asa smart task-volunteer matching system

“…These needs differ for each volunteer and range from increasing their social network, acquiring a new skill, helping a cause, and the feeling of belonging to an organization. [27]. Other considerations include technology infrastructure, which governs how volunteers interact with the organization, other volunteers, and beneficiaries.…”