Project-based solutions and innovative approaches to the management of rehabilitation centres and social service institutions

Abstract

Unprecedented challenges associated with martial law, limited resources, growing population needs and the ongoing transformation of the social sector call for a fundamental rethinking of traditional management approaches in rehabilitation centres and social service institutions. The aim of this study was to provide a conceptual framework for a system of innovative management approaches and project-based solutions for rehabilitation centres and social service institutions, taking into account the contemporary Ukrainian context. The study employed a mixed-methods methodology, including a systematic literature review, analysis of the regulatory framework, qualitative case studies, a quantitative survey of 247 respondents from 183 organisations and expert validation of the proposed model using the Delphi method. The findings revealed critical gaps in current management practices: only 23.7% of organisations considered their management systems to be innovative. The main challenges include limited funding (87.4%), a shortage of qualified personnel (71.3%), professional burnout (68.9%) and adaptation to wartime conditions (64.2%). The study has systematised international experience and Ukrainian practices across eight key areas: digital transformation, project management, co-production with clients, Agile practices, quality management, strategic human resource management, financial management, partnerships and management under wartime conditions. Based on the synthesis of the findings, an integrated model of innovative management has been developed, combining four interrelated domains: strategic leadership and governance, operational excellence and quality, stakeholder engagement and resource sustainability. The model has been validated by experts and adapted to the context of limited resources and wartime challenges. A comprehensive set of implementation tools has been developed, including a diagnostic instrument, a transformation roadmap, methodological guidelines, templates and a training program. The study suggests that organisations with a high level of management innovation achieve 38% higher client satisfaction, 43% better team coordination and 52% lower staff turnover. Organisational resilience was found to be a critical predictor of survival during periods of crisis.