Results-Based Management (RBM) aims to enhance accountability, transparency, and effectiveness in the allocation and utilization of resources. In the not-for-profit sector, particularly among non-governmental organizations (NGOs), RBM has been pivotal in ensuring interventions are aligned with organizational goals and community needs, thereby maximizing impact. COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the not-for-profit sector in Zimbabwe by causing unprecedented challenges such as restrictions on movement, supply chain disruptions, and economic downturns. These challenges have necessitated swift and adaptive responses from NGOs, which play a critical role in providing essential services and support to vulnerable populations. This study examines the impact of the pandemic on the implementation of RBM within the not-for-profit sector in Zimbabwe. The study focuses on not-for-profit organizations (NPOs) whose importance in a nation’s development cannot be understated. A concurrent mixed methods approach was employed, using a survey of 190 NPOs, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with NPOs staff. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics with Chi-square test of association, while thematic analysis was done for qualitative data. The findings reveal essential influences of COVID-19 on NPOs' ability to implement RBM, identifying key factors influencing effectiveness during the pandemic, including organizational flexibility, donor support, and communication strategies. Additionally, it highlights the need for strengthened capacities, such as data analysis skills, and potentially adjusted incentive structures to support effective RBM. The study underscores the inherent challenges of RBM during a crisis, including uncertainty, competing priorities, and the potential focus on short-term relief. This research contributes to a greater understanding of the challenges and opportunities for NPOs implementing RBM during a global crisis. The findings offer valuable insights for NPOs, donors, and policymakers to strengthen RBM practices and ensure continued effectiveness in achieving impactful results.
Table of Contents
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background to the study
1.2 Aim and Significance of the Study
1.3 Problem Statement
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Research Objectives
1.6 Hypothesis
1.7 Scope of Study
1.8 Study Variables
1.9 Limitations of Study
1.10 Conclusion
CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0 Introduction
2.1 Empirical Research
2.2 Theoretical Framework
2.2.1 Results-Based Management
2.2.2 Theory of Constraints
2.3 Conceptual Framework
2.4 Research Gap
2.5 Conclusion
CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.0 Introduction
3.1 Research Philosophy
3.2 Research design
3.2.1 Qualitative research approach
3.2.2 Justification for a concurrent mixed methods approach
3.3 Research Approach
3.4 Study sites
3.5 Study population
3.6 Sample size
3.7 Sampling Design
3.7.1 Inclusion and exclusion criteria
3.7.2 Approach/Procedures
3.8 Data Collection Tools
3.9 Data Analysis Techniques
3.10 Data Analysis
3.11 Validity and Reliability
3.12 Ethical Consideration
3.12.1 Researcher’s competency
3.12.2 Informed consent
3.12.3 Anonymity
3.12.4 Confidentiality
3.12.5 Privacy
3.13 Conclusion
CHAPTER FOUR: DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND FINDINGS
4.1 Introduction
4.1.1 Quantitative data cleaning and coding
4.1.2 Response rate
4.2 Consent
4.3 Descriptive Statistics of Respondents
4.3.1 Gender
4.3.2 Type of NPO
4.3.4 Work experience in NPOs
4.3.5 Education
4.3.6 Location
4.3.7 Marital status
4.4 Adoption and usage of RBM
4.4.1 Duration
4.4.2 Level of RBM adoption
4.5 Primary motivations for adopting RBM in an organization
4.6 Main challenges encountered by organizations in the implementation of RBM
4.7 Changes in Capacities and Incentives for RBM Implementation
4.8 Key performance indicators
4.8.1 Financial stability
4.8.2 Program effectiveness
4.8.3 Organizational capacity
4.8.4 Stakeholder engagement
4.8.5 Impact assessment
4.8 Chapter summary
CHAPTER FIVE: DISCUSSION, SUMMARY, AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.0 Introduction
5.1 Discussion of Research Findings
5.1.1 Impact of COVID-19 on RBM Implementation in Not-For-Profit Organizations during COVID-19
5.1.2 Barriers to RBM implementation
5.1.3 Preparedness of the Not-For-Profit Sector for RBM Implementation During COVID-19
5.1.4 Challenges faced in Implementing RBM during COVID-19
5.2 Summary
5.3 Recommendations
5.3.1. Strategies for enhancing RBM implementation
5.3.2. Capacity building initiatives
5.3.3. Policy recommendations
5.4 Scope of Future Research
5.5 Conclusion
Research Objective and Themes
This study aims to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the implementation of Results-Based Management (RBM) within Zimbabwe's not-for-profit sector, focusing on identifying challenges, adaptive strategies, and policy implications to foster organizational resilience.
- The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on RBM operational implementation.
- Barriers to effective RBM adoption during a global crisis.
- Building organizational capacity and adaptability in resource-constrained environments.
- The role of leadership, technology, and stakeholder engagement in project performance.
- Evidence-based recommendations for sustainable not-for-profit management during crises.
Excerpt from the Book
1.1 Background to the study
Results-oriented approaches are increasingly being used by organizations in the public and non-profit sectors worldwide in order to effectively manage their operations (David, Shin, Pérez, Anderies, & Janssen, 2018). Results-based management (RBM) is a strategic management technique that places a high priority on performance and achieving desired goals. Some people refer to it as outcome-oriented management or result-oriented management. RBM involves setting clear goals, monitoring progress, assessing performance, and making adjustments as necessary to ensure that the objectives are met. This approach has been particularly beneficial for organizations working in the development sector, particularly in areas like health, education, and humanitarian assistance. Over a number of years, and in some cases, decades, numerous organizations and governments have given RBM implementation a significant amount of time and effort. The use of RBM has resulted in the gathering of important knowledge and experience on the difficulties and positive viewpoints associated with it (Ansong, Gissi, & Calado, 2017), but none of these have been drawn from RBM implementation in a global crisis.
As from December 2019, a pneumonia-like illness of unknown origin was detected in Wuhan, China. By early February 2020, the causative agent was identified and named severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) Coronavirus 2 (COV 2) (WHO, 2020b). By March 2020, this health condition had spread globally, and had almost brought the whole globe to a standstill. In just over a year, there have been more than 122 million confirmed infections and close to three million confirmed deaths globally. Within the same time period, although with concerns of under reporting (Chitungo et al, 2020 & Dzinamarira et al, 2020), Africa has reported over three million confirmed cases with over 109,000 deaths (WHO, 2020a). In Sub-Saharan Africa, COVID-19 has resulted in additional pressure to already strained health systems characterized by poor health outcomes with high mortality rates linked to a triple burden of disease (HIV, tuberculosis, and non-communicable diseases) (Makombe, 2021 & Mhango et al, 2020).
Summary of Chapters
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION: This chapter provides an overview of the study, defining the research objectives, core questions, and the significance of investigating RBM implementation in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW: This chapter reviews existing empirical and theoretical research on RBM, situating the study within the discourse of organizational management and performance during global crises.
CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY: This section details the research philosophy, design, sampling strategies, and data collection methods, justifying the use of a concurrent mixed-methods approach.
CHAPTER FOUR: DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND FINDINGS: This chapter presents the data gathered from surveys and interviews, providing a comprehensive analysis of the adoption, challenges, and motivations regarding RBM implementation in Zimbabwean NPOs.
CHAPTER FIVE: DISCUSSION, SUMMARY, AND RECOMMENDATIONS: This final chapter synthesizes the findings to discuss broader implications, offering practical recommendations and strategies for future-proofing NPOs in the face of sudden global disruptions.
Keywords
Results-Based Management, Performance management, Outcome-based approach, Results-oriented planning, COVID-19 pandemic, Not-for-Profit organizations, Accountability, Transparency, Organizational resilience, Crisis management, Strategic planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Data-driven decision-making, NGO sustainability, Resource allocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core focus of this research?
The research focuses on evaluating how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the implementation of Results-Based Management (RBM) frameworks within Zimbabwe's not-for-profit sector.
What are the central themes explored in the work?
The work explores administrative adaptability, the effectiveness of RBM as a management tool during crises, the impact of digital transformation on NGO operations, and the importance of resilience in resource-constrained environments.
What is the primary research question?
The main question is: "How has the implementation of RBM been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in Zimbabwe?"
Which scientific methodology is employed?
The study uses a concurrent mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys (N=159) with in-depth qualitative interviews and focus group discussions to gain a holistic view.
What does the main body of the research address?
The main body examines participant demographics, current RBM adoption levels, primary motivations, significant operational challenges during lockdowns, and the strategies organizations implemented to maintain effectiveness.
What keywords characterize the study?
The study is characterized by keywords such as Results-Based Management, COVID-19, NGO Effectiveness, Performance Measurement, and Organizational Resilience.
How does the Theory of Constraints apply to the findings?
The Theory of Constraints is used to identify and address organizational bottlenecks, guiding NPOs in prioritizing resources effectively when faced with pandemic-related limitations.
What is the significance of the findings for policymakers?
The findings provide insights into how regulatory and policy environments can be optimized to foster greater organizational resilience and transparency in the not-for-profit sector, even during global shocks.
- Citation du texte
- Wellington Mushayi (Auteur), 2025, Accountability in Crisis: Evaluating Results-Based Management implementation in Zimbabwe's Not-for-Profit Sector During COVID-19 Pandemic, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1582343
