Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Purpose: This article explores the determinants of organizational agility in social work and identifies how agile practices enhance the effectiveness and adaptability of organizations in this field. The study provides theoretical insights and practical recommendations to improve the responsiveness of social work organizations to dynamic social challenges. Design/methodology/approach: The research is based on a survey conducted in April-May 2023 with 303 respondents representing organizations involved in social work. A structured questionnaire was used to gather data on key agility factors, and Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) was applied to identify relationships between variables and dimensions of agility. Findings: The study reveals that agility in social work organizations is driven by quick responses to beneficiary needs, flexibility in adapting activities, collaboration with diverse institutions, continuous communication, and the use of technology. Continuous improvement of methods and inclusion of beneficiaries’ voices are also critical. These factors collectively shape organizations' capacity to adapt and innovate in complex environments. Research limitations/implications: The study is limited by its reliance on a single method (survey) and cross-sectional design, which captures a snapshot of agility but not long-term trends. Future research could include longitudinal studies or mixed-method approaches for a more comprehensive understanding. Practical implications: Organizations can enhance agility by fostering collaborative networks, integrating technological solutions, and prioritizing beneficiary engagement to align strategies with evolving social needs. Social implications: Improving agility in social work can enhance service quality and accessibility for vulnerable populations, enabling organizations to address pressing social issues and foster resilient, inclusive communities. Originality/value: This study offers a novel perspective on the intersection of organizational agility and social work, a topic with limited exploration in the literature. By combining empirical data with theoretical analysis, it contributes to understanding and implementing agility in social work organizations. Keywords: social work, organizational agility, organizational, corporate social responsibility, social sector. Category of the paper: research paper.
Authors: Maria Kocot, György Pál Pápay
Institution: University of Economics in Katowice
Language: English
Subfield: Management of Technology and Innovation
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4409415408