Workplace Training Design in Nonprofit Organizations

Abstract

Non-profit organizations (NPOs) play important roles in society as they provide services for diverse populations. However, when their functions become critical, the discussion regarding workplace training in NPOs is limited. Most of discussions in the existing training literature focus on business sectors. To help bring this gap, this study systematically examined the characteristics of NPOs and discussed the factors that influence NPO workplace training design. Through literature review, questionnaire, and interview, this study identified factors in four aspects, including human structure, managerial system, financial environment, and the climate of learning. This study found that the training design model used in business sectors might not appropriate in NPOs due to their different organizational characteristics. Based on the finding, this study suggested that NPOs should use the flexibility of on-the-job training in individual and group level and apply appropriate training design framework.