The Digitization of ComDev : Exploring the Benefits and Challenges of Remote Work Within Nonprofits

Remote work is a phenomenon that was accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic, but nevertheless it has changed the landscape os communications whether we embrace it or not. This study is about remote work and the impact that it has had on communications, social engagement, and productivity. This thesis focuses on the benefits and challenges of nonprofits using digital technology to work remotely, whether it increases or decreases productivity and social engagement, and if there are inequities between the Global North and the South when it comes to telework. This study aims to find the main variables for remote work to be sustainable in order to connect and engage with others digitally for many years to come without barriers. Through this thesis, I will also make recommendations to strengthen our capacity to do our jobs well while working remotely. This paper explores two key research questions: RQ1: What are the main challenges the Gloval North and the Global South face when it comes to remote work? and RQ2: How are digital tools being used by nonprofits in terms of outreach? Methodology: The research methods used for this study are survey research and interviews. Using survey data from 212 nonprofit remote workers and interview feedback from two nonprofit organizations, I was able to gather information about the different aspects of nonprofit remote work globally and locally. The data collection from the survey componenet allowed me to see measurable differences in responses from different demographical and geographical populations while the semi-structured interviews from organizations provided meaningful feedback about the overall shift to working remotely which gave me a deeper understanding about their working conditions and outreach efforts. Findings: Results indicate that the challenges nonprofit teleworkers from around the world vary by locality. Remote workers from the Global North confront social isolation while remote workers from the Global South face challenges that have to do with the lack of ICT access. Outreach has been impacted by advances in technology but also by the Covid-19 pandemic in which many nonprofits had to use many of these digital tols for outreach. Originality / Value: Currently, there are not many studies that focus on remote work and nonprofit operations. It is my hope to bring new perspectives about remote work and to crystallize the ways we can optimize digital tools to enable nonprofit work to be more equitable, productive, and healthier so that nonprofits can serve and engage with our communities as we all go through a phase of innovation.