Performance Measurement in Nonprofit Organization: A Case Study on Women Movement in Malaysia (ARROW)

Abstract

Purpose – This article sets out to examine how performance can be measured in nonprofit organizations. This research aims to respond on how the outcomes can be measured through performance which enables to enhance the case organization (ARROW) to contribute to the wellbeing and society.

Design/methodology/approach – This study is a qualitative case study. The qualitative data was created through semi-structured interviews and action research. The researcher took part in measuring the activities conducted by the case organization as an instrument of observation. Based on the results of the research, performance can be measured in nonprofit organizations using several different research methods. This study focused on measuring the outcome perspective, using the behavioral and environmental point of view.

Findings – The results from the present study demonstrate that that the case organization’s (ARROW) performance is effective. The case organization has resulted that it had, improved the condition, increased skills and modified behavior, indicated that the participants’ lives had encountered great changes after they had started to participate in the activities of the case organization. This measure was seemed to be more useful and effective as it enable a clear guidance on the measuring part.

Research limitations/implications – As the sample used for analysis was focusing only on a case organization, the generalizability of the results to other countries remains to be tested.

Practical implications – The findings of the present study may assist other nonprofit to enhance their capability and credibility by using the measurement.

Originality/value – The study contributes to a better understanding of using a measurement to view and get feedback on their outcome based on behavioral and environmental point of view which seems to be a new topic in the Malaysian nonprofit context.

Keywords: Performance Measurement, Nonprofit, Organisation,