Exploring the influence of resource dependence on organizational autonomy: A case study of a human services organization in New York City

The qualitative case study explored the relationship between government and nonprofit organizations as it related to organizational autonomy. Examining the relationship from the perspective of resource dependency, institutional theory and economic paradigms, this study illustrates that a disproportionate reliance on government for human service funding creates dependency. Organizations with high levels of dependence on government subsidy will be challenged to sustain their businesses as contractual opportunities recede. This dissertation illuminates how a nonprofit organization can successfully manage government contracts. The specific context for the case study was with the Services for People (SFP) organization, a pseudonym. SFP is a faith-based organization providing human services for more than thirty years in New York City. The main source of data for the case study included semi-structured interviews with eleven key management staff. All of the management staff had years of contract management experience and were knowledgeable about the organization, making their contributions invaluable to the study and to the creation of knowledge in the field of nonprofit management. Supplemental to the interviews provided by the staff included document analysis and critical incident reports.;The supposition of government influencing organizational autonomy was supported by the findings in the study. Organizations have limited discretion to alter government contracts. Government entities in contrast have the ability to change contracts as it relates to funding allocations or services. The findings in the study indicated that reduced autonomy does not necessitate alteration to the primary goal of service provision. Contract management involves forecasting changes in the funding environment and systems to ensure fiscal viability. Organizations strategically select contracts that are in line with their mission and goals. The study also highlighted faith-based organizations that operate with the same restrictions as other groups contracting with New York City.