Basics of Data Analysis in Non-Profit Organizations: Data Types, Collection Methods, and Foundational Statistics
Author: Dr. Anna Neya Kazanskaia
Publisher: NEYA Global | NEYA Global Publishing
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0009-5669-1676
DOI: https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-bda-2025
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About the Article
This article introduces the foundational principles of data analysis for non-profits, focusing on data types, collection methods, and key statistical tools. It explains the role of qualitative and quantitative data, outlines practical methods such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, observation, and document review, and stresses the importance of data quality through accuracy, reliability, and validity. Basic statistical concepts—including mean, median, mode, standard deviation, and correlation—are presented as accessible tools for non-profit practitioners. Case illustrations from health, education, and fundraising contexts show how these principles can be applied in practice to strengthen transparency, accountability, and evidence-based strategies.
Key Topics
- Qualitative and quantitative data in non-profit contexts
- Core methods of data collection (surveys, interviews, focus groups, observation, document review)
- Ensuring accuracy, reliability, and validity in data
- Fundamental statistical tools: mean, median, mode, standard deviation, correlation
- Practical applications in health, education, and fundraising
- Building organizational data literacy and analytical capacity
- Using accessible software (Excel, Google Sheets) for analysis
Academic Value
This article contributes to the academic–practice interface by providing non-profits with a structured overview of basic analytical processes. It demonstrates how foundational methods and statistics can be operationalized in resource-constrained contexts, ensuring rigor and sustainability while preparing organizations for more advanced data practices.
Suggested Citation
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Basics of Data Analysis in Non-Profit Organizations: Data Types, Collection Methods, and Foundational Statistics. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-bda-2025
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Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Basics of data analysis in non-profit organizations: Data types, collection methods, and foundational statistics. Neya Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies.
https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-bda-2025
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