Why do private non-profit organizations provide information on the Internet?

Abstract

Purpose – The aim of this study is to show the provision of research measures information on the Internet by private non-profit organizations (NPOs) and provide insight on underlying drivers. Design/methodology/approach – This research involves scoring websites of Belgian NPOs on the basis of their information dissemination and applies univariate and multivariate statistical methods to analyze the driving forces. It also provides two illustrating case studies. Findings – The drivers of Internet information provision in our sample organizations show many similarities to those found for for-profit corporations. However, contrary to the latter, NPOs include little financial information and focus on their goals. Furthermore, in line with the notion that insiders-workers may capture the organization, we find that the degree of professionalization has a significantly negative impact on disclosure. Overall, outside pressures as predicted by neo-institutional theory and agency issues are important in shaping communication of information. In fact, the two cases indicate that the pressures, as predicted by neo-institutional theory, may easily lead NPOs to cater to key stakeholders in much the same way as for-profit corporations cater to customers. Research limitations/implications – The results are indicative of general forces driving NPO behaviour. Of interest would be a more in-depth analysis to link the prevalence of certain forces to specific governance models and to contextual factors. Practical implications – These findings may give users/visitors of websites better insight into the forces shaping information communication policies of an NPO. Originality/value – This paper adds to the scant evidence on Internet information provision by private non-profit organizations and its drivers. As such, it offers an opportunity to study the forces that are likely shaping decision-making within NPOs.

Cyberspace Effects on Civil Society. The Ultimate Game-Changer or Not?

“…In general, however, the third sector tends to use the Internet and social media as information and communication channels in much the same way as the for-profit sector, albeit less professionally (e.g. Van Hulle and Dewaelheyns, 2014;Guldbrandsen and Ødegård, 2011). Yet while almost all national organizations use diverse digital media and digital tools, only half of the local organizations reported likewise (Arnesen et al, 2016).…”

Zakat accounting and public accountability: Evidence from Indonesia

“…Public accountability is a critical factor for the long-term viability of any organization, particularly non-profit institutions like zakat management organizations that rely heavily on public trust for their sustainability (Rinaldi et al, 2018;Trisnaningtyas et al, 2020). Within zakat management institutions, public accountability signifies a form of responsibility not only towards the donating public but also towards Allah, who is considered the ultimate trustee and owner of the entrusted wealth (Triyuwono, 2006;Yasmin et al, 2014). Ultimately, the promotion of public accountability in zakat management will reinforce public trust, optimize the impact of zakat programs, and contribute to the socio-economic development of Muslim communities In Indonesia, zakat management institutions comprise both government-established bodies, namely the National Board of Zakat (BAZNAS), and community-based organizations known as Regional Zakat Institutions (LAZ).…”

“…This research significantly contributes by providing evidence that fosters the enhancement of public accountability within zakat institutions. A stronger public accountability instills greater trust among the public in zakat institutions (Van Hulle and Dewaelheyns, 2014;Yanuar and Priyono, 2020). Consequently, it becomes easier for muzakki (those who give zakat) to entrust their funds to these institutions (Weipking et al, 2021).…”