Wednesday , 09 March 2005
Australian not-for-profits are operating in an increasingly competitive environment. The deregulation and privatisation of government services has resulted in competition between not-for-profit organisations and the private sector.
Dr Jay Weerawardena of UQ Business School said he recognises the pressure on the not-for-profit sector to perform at a level of professionalism equal to that of the private sector.
Dr Weerawardena said "With limited funds and a largely volunteer workforce across the sector, this can be difficult.
One solution for some not-for-profits has been to work with postgraduate business students to develop marketing plans.
Over the last few semesters not-for-profits have been asked to participate in the marketing plan project undertaken by Master of Business and MBA students."
Dr Jay Weerawardena said participants included the Brisbane Philharmonic Orchestra, RSPCA Queensland, Queensland Cancer Fund, and most recently the Leukaemia Foundation of Queensland.
He said, "We have had a very positive response from participants. The Queensland Cancer Fund said it was a must for any not-for-profit looking for a fresh strategic point of view."
For further information:
Dr Jay Weerawardena
Phone (07) 3365 6674
E-mail j.weerawardena@business.uq.edu.au
Media enquiries:
Cathy Stacey
Marketing Development Manager
Phone (07) 3365 6179
Mobile 0434 074 372
Fiona Sutton
Mobile 0423 637 699
Email media@business.uq.edu.au
