Digitalization and non-profits: Competency requirements in non-profit sector of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Digitalization is emerging as a broader socio-technical transformation affecting businesses of all types. The paradigm shifts in digital technology have mandated new mindsets and approaches to managerial, leadership, and entrepreneurial competitiveness in organizations. Human capital with the ability to convey digital knowledge and strategies is regarded as a crucial resource for digital transformations (DT) in organizations. In fact, the development of relevant technological and digital competencies (DCs) is regarded as the biggest obstacle to DT in non-profit organizations (NPOs) as well. However, the growth of literature in this direction has been fragmented by the lack of any formal integration of DCs. The current study is formulated with the primary goal of exploring the digital competency requirements of NPOs. A systematic literature review protocol adhering to PRISMA guidelines was undertaken to synthesize the initial draft of DCs. Subsequently, a modified two-round Delphi survey with a panel of 25 experts was used to rate the competencies quantitatively. The analysis followed the prescribed Delphi principles to determine the results' validity and reliability. As a result, a comprehensive set of eighteen competencies was generated and categorized into three areas (‘digital leadership’, ‘personnel and organizational’, and ‘technical’ competencies). While filling an important void in the literature, the study's findings lay the groundwork for a digital transformation education, learning, and development agenda in non-profits.