Using the internet: case studies from nonprofit organisations
The following selected case studies on Community ICT transformation look at how different types of nonprofits and communities are using the internet. They are taken from a larger collection prepared by the Australian government.
The case studies profile ICT success stories across the themes of
- Enhancing operational efficiency and capability
- Delivering services and support
- Building communities, networks and connections
See the complete set
of case studies. See also a collection of case studies about cultural organisations and their use of the internet and e-business prepared by the Australian Government.
Case study 1: Using a website to help manage a community radio station
2RRR is a Sydney community radio station with a website www.2rrr.org.au that has become essential to its operation.
Here is the full 2RRR case study.
Case study 2: Australian Chess Federation uses weekly e-newsletters to transform a static website into a news-driven resource
Comprising state and territory chess associations, the Australian Chess Federation (ACF) www.auschess.org.au functions as a national chess coordinator.
The federation's website contains chess news, results from tournaments, an archive of tournament results and games, and details of upcoming tournaments and events. Until recently it ran a lively bulletin board, and it has experimented with an online game-playing service. It also sends out a weekly email newsletter.
Here is the full Australian Chess Federation case study.
Case study 3: Creating a sense of community for indigenous young people
Based at the Gap Youth Centre in Alice Springs , Deadly Mob encourages an online community of indigenous young people to actively express their views, hopes, activities and talent online.
The website, www.deadlymob.org, is the major gateway to many resources that indigenous young people can use for work, recreation and networking. There's a work placement search engine, and resources such as a mentors' page, an online newsletter, community web pages and Deadly Mail .
Here is the full Deadly Mob case study
Case study 4: DepressioNet allows difficult-to-reach clients to use a valuable web resource
DepressioNet www.depressionet.com.au is an independent, nonprofit organisation providing comprehensive information, help and 24-hour peer support via the web.
By integrating web functions such as chatrooms and a message board with mental health practices it provides a safe, anonymous service for those seeking health information who feel outside their comfort zone. Users are able to access comprehensive information 24 hours a day seven days a week.
Here is the full Depressionet case study.
Case study 5: Kids Help Line uses web counselling to provide clients with extra options
Kids Help Line www.kidshelp.com.au is a national telephone and web-based counselling service for young people from 5 to 18 years. It is free, anonymous and confidential.
Here is the full Kids Help Line case study.
Case study 6: Queensland Rural Women's Network taking the internet to its members
The Queensland Rural Women's Network (QRWN) was formed in 1993 to meet the needs of women in rural communities throughout the state.
Its website supports member activities and sponsors several projects including BridgIT www.qrwn.org.au/bridgit, an innovative training scheme that helps those in rural and remote areas of Queensland to overcome the difficulties associated with communications, inadequate infrastructure and fear of technology to use the internet.
Here is the full Queensland Rural Women's Network case study.
Case study 7: Victorian respite care network uses intranet for coordination and planning
The South West Respite Network www.respitesouthwest.org.au is a group of service providers funded under Australian government and state government carer respite strategies.
Here is the full South West Respite Network case study.
Case study 8: Philanthropy Australia takes open source route
Philanthropy Australia is the peak national body for the philanthropic sector, representing over 220 family, private, community and corporate grantmaking trusts and foundations.. To improve its services to members across the country, Philanthropy Australia decided to redevelop its website www.philanthropy.org.au and membership databases, reorganise its resource centre, and create an online catalogue of its holdings.
Here is the full Philanthropy Australia case study.