Organization theory. Increasing volunteer motivation in third-sector organizations

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• Introduction
• Course of the thesis
• Motivation theory
• Influence of organisation theory
• Non-profit sector and motivation theory
• Vroom's Expectancy Theory
• Methodical procedure
• Literature review
• Case Study
• Applied method and adaptions
• Selection of Digital Hubs and associations
• Structure of the questionnaire
• Analysis
• How to increase volunteer motivation
• Findings of the research
• Findings of the case study
• Discussion and limitations
• Conclusion and future steps

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This thesis examines the challenge of motivating volunteers in third-sector organizations, specifically using the Gutenberg Digital Hub (GDH) as a case study. It aims to categorize the GDH within existing organizational theory frameworks and explore how motivation theory, particularly Vroom's Expectancy Theory, can be applied to this unique hybrid organization. The study seeks to empower similar organizations by providing practical insights and methods for increasing volunteer motivation.

• Classification of the Gutenberg Digital Hub as a hybrid organization within organizational theory.
• Application of Vroom's Expectancy Theory to understand volunteer motivation in the context of the GDH.
• Exploration of practical methods and techniques for increasing volunteer motivation in similar organizations.
• Identification of key factors influencing volunteer motivation, such as addressing needs, enabling autonomy, and demonstrating organizational purpose.
• Analysis of the unique characteristics of the GDH and its impact on volunteer motivation.

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

• Introduction: This chapter introduces the thesis and outlines its course, focusing on the importance of volunteer motivation in third-sector organizations and specifically the GDH.
• Motivation theory: This chapter explores the theoretical framework for understanding motivation in organizations, including the classification of the GDH as a hybrid organization and the application of Vroom's Expectancy Theory.
• Methodical procedure: This chapter details the research methodology used in the thesis, including the literature review and case study approach, outlining the specific methods employed and adaptations made for the GDH.
• How to increase volunteer motivation: This chapter presents the findings of the research and case study, highlighting key insights into increasing volunteer motivation in the GDH and similar organizations.
• Discussion and limitations: This chapter analyzes the findings, highlighting the limitations of the research and suggesting areas for future research.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

This thesis focuses on key concepts such as volunteer motivation, third-sector organizations, hybrid organizations, Vroom's Expectancy Theory, digital transformation, and the Gutenberg Digital Hub. The research examines how these concepts intersect and contribute to a better understanding of how to effectively motivate volunteers in this unique organizational context.