Teaching Paper: Glossary of Data Analysis and Technology Terms for Nonprofit Practice
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-da-glossary-tp
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About the Article
This Teaching Paper provides a comprehensive glossary of essential terms in data analysis and technology, tailored for nonprofit organizations. Covering more than forty concepts—including aggregation, data cleaning, artificial intelligence, blockchain, impact measurement, and donor analytics—the glossary serves as both an academic reference and a practical management tool.
By linking each definition to nonprofit applications, the paper strengthens the capacity of managers, students, and practitioners to engage in evidence-based decision-making. Drawing on foundational perspectives from Bryson, Drucker, and Patton, it illustrates how accurate terminology fosters organizational learning, ethical practice, and innovation. Practical notes ensure that concepts are not only defined but also directly applied to challenges in nonprofit management.
Key Topics
- Aggregation, normalization, and data transformation
- Data cleaning, encryption, privacy, and governance
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning in nonprofits
- Blockchain applications for transparency and donor trust
- Descriptive statistics and exploratory data analysis (EDA)
- Impact measurement and program evaluation
- Glossary as a staff training and onboarding tool
Academic Value
This Teaching Paper bridges academic theory and nonprofit practice by transforming complex data and technology terminology into accessible, applied knowledge. It contributes to both scholarship—by aligning with established frameworks—and practice—by offering nonprofits a resource to operationalize technical language in evaluation, fundraising, and governance.
The glossary can be used as:
- A training resource for staff and volunteers
- A reference guide for managers and students
- A communication tool for dialogue with funders and evaluators
Suggested Citation
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Teaching Paper: Glossary of Data Analysis and Technology Terms for Nonprofit Practice – Practical Explanations and Applications for Evidence-Based Management. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-da-glossary-tp
References
Bryson, J. M. (2018). Strategic planning for public and nonprofit organizations (5th ed.). Jossey-Bass.
Drucker, P. F. (1990). Managing the nonprofit organization. HarperCollins.
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
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Common data sources for non-profit organizations: Internal records, external datasets, and digital tools. Neya Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies.
https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-cds-2025
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Data cleaning and preparation in non-profit organizations: Ensuring accuracy, consistency, and usability. Neya Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies.
https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-dcp-2025
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Glossary of data analysis and technology terms for nonprofit practice. Neya Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies.
https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-da-glossary-tp
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Introduction to Data Analysis for Non-Profits. NEYA Global Publishing.
https://doi.org/10.64357/introduction-data-analysis-nonprofits-2025
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Quantitative Research Methods. NEYA Global Publishing.
https://doi.org/10.64357/quantitative-research-methods-2025
Patton, M. Q. (2008). Utilization-focused evaluation (4th ed.). Sage.
