A Review of Organizational Effectiveness in NGOS

The study review studies on organizational effectiveness in Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). Various models of Organizational Effectiveness (OE) that have been applied in NGOs are discussed. Different viewpoints emerging from research done over the past four decades is synthesized. The review of models and research studies revealed little agreement among academic community on conceptualization of NGO effectiveness. While early studies focused on assessment of NGO effectiveness, contemporary studies have focused on processes that contribute to NGO effectiveness. The study found NGO effectiveness as a socially constructed concept conceptualized by perception of various stakeholders as per their understanding and interaction with organization. Most of the studies found board effectiveness as a common dimension of effectiveness. It was also found that development of a universal standard of NGO effectiveness to compare NGOs will not be possible because NGOs work on diverse themes, issues and approaches. The study proposes that future research will focus on multiple constituency model of effectiveness, and funders will continue to hold a strategic position in NGO management.