Effective Management Techniques in Non-Profit Organizations

Strategic Insights -

The York Archaeological Trust, a non-profit organization, won second prize in the Association of Project Managers Sir Monty Finniston awards for excellence in project management. The Trust successfully implemented project management techniques to maximize its resources and complete projects efficiently. Founded in 1972 with a staff of two, the Trust grew to have 60 employees and established the award-winning Jorvik Viking Centre. However, as the organization expanded, it faced increased competition and had to balance multiple priorities, including winning contracts, sustaining internal research, and maintaining its reputation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The York Archaeological Trust implemented a project-management system to balance resources and complete projects efficiently, using a commercial software package to divide work into projects and tasks.
  • The system allows for monthly progress updates, a slippage index, and a 'what-if?' framework for assessing resource implications for new projects.
  • The system provides a fine level of control at all levels, enabling managers to monitor staffing levels, scheduling difficulties, and make informed decisions.
  • The Trust has an impressive record of recognition for its use of modern management techniques, including a National Marketing Award and two awards for the Most Effective Use of IT.
  • The Trust's ability to use project management techniques benefits all stakeholders, including academics, customers, and the organization itself.
  • The Trust's success demonstrates that effective management techniques can be applied in non-profit organizations without compromising their values.

Statistics:

  • 2 years: duration of the project-management system's implementation
  • 120: number of current projects managed by the system
  • 60: staff size of the York Archaeological Trust
  • 1972: founding year of the York Archaeological Trust
  • 1991: year the Trust was pipped into second place in the Anderson/Sunday Times awards for the Most Effective Use of IT
  • 1987: year the Jorvik Viking Centre won a National Marketing Award

Sources:

  • Source 1: The Observer and IBM-sponsored Association of Project Managers Sir Monty Finniston awards
  • Source 2: The York Archaeological Trust's project-management system implementation