Categorisation of digitalisation practises in voluntary sports clubs

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study asks: (i) To what extent can VSCs be categorised in terms of their digitalisation application practices and usage perspectives, and (ii) how can the identified categories be described in terms of further organisational characteristics? Methodology: An online survey was conducted among VSCs in Austria and Germany. A hierarchical cluster analysis was carried out to create categories of digitalisation. N = 367 VSCs were included in the cluster analysis. Findings: Four categories of digitalisation were identified: “Doubters” (above-average use of digital tools, digitalisation is seen as comparatively risky), “Open Minds” (digitalisation is seen as an opportunity, high need for support), “Pessimists” (digitalisation is seen as comparatively risky), and “High Performers” (above-average use of digital tools, lowest need for support). The categories also differ in terms of organisational goals, the fit of digitalisation to the attitudes of members and the board, and in relation to the organisational culture. Practical implications: The categories can serve as a guideline for which direction digitalisation in the VSC should be developed. Furthermore, the categories provide a classification that could help sports federations more effectively advise their VSCs. Research contribution: The study complements previous findings that focus on single areas of digitalisation application by a multi-perspective analysis of digitalisation.