Abstract
Research purpose: Social enterprises present solutions to an array of wicked problems associated with socio-economic disparities in many societies, hence organisational effectiveness (OE) leading to successful outcomes has become a crucial. The primary objective of the research is to create an OE framework that will guide social entrepreneurs toward improving organisational effectiveness.
Motivation for the study: Social enterprises are fundamental to a long-term solution, however, if the organisation is failing at a micro- or organisational level, then the impact will not be noticeable. The proposed framework will be beneficial for organisational planning and the appraisal of progress, outcomes, and effectiveness and influence policy development.
Research approach/design and method: A qualitative, exploratory, and interpretive approach was adopted for the study. A two-phased research approach was utilised, applying Delphi and a multiple-case study as data collection tools, followed by coding and a thematic analysis leading to comprehensive findings.
Main findings: The findings show that, in a South African context, although not fully recognised for the efforts, social enterprises are already making a significant difference in addressing societal challenges. Organisationally, much work must be done to reach acceptable social enterprise effectiveness (SEE) standards to ensure that dual objectives are achieved, and successful organisational outcomes attained.
Practical/managerial implications: OE has been a prominent concept in the life of the organisation at different levels. The framework proposed is beneficial for the developing South African social economy to apply at an organisational level so that social entrepreneurs and practitioners, including those in support roles, can assist social enterprises to thrive.
Contribution/value-add: This empirical study adds to the organisational theory and OE body of knowledge with a framework which can be practically applied to promote social enterprise development.
Keywords: Organisational theory, organisational effectiveness, social entrepreneurship, social enterprise effectiveness