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Digital Transformation And Digital Maturity Models In Digital Youth Work Sector: A Critical Review

Author

Listed:
  • Madalin Gabriel Florea

    (Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi)

  • Gabriela Mesnita

    (Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi)

Abstract

Digital transformation represents a new paradigm across various sectors of activity, but its implementation in the youth work sector is still at an early stage of research. This article is a critical review of digital maturity and digital transformation models, exploring popular theories, dimensions and methodologies from corporate, public and EU education sectors. The purpose of the review is to outline strengths and limitations of existing models when applied in the context of youth organisations. While we identified common dimensions addressed, such as strategy, culture, technology and data governance, current models are tailored for profit-driven environments and neglect challenges faced by youth organisations, for example: resource limitations, dynamic evolution, participatory governance and the need for ethical practices in digital world. Furthermore, emerging trends (such as AR/VR, AI, blockchain, etc.) are under-represented in conventional maturity frameworks. This having the potential to reshape digital youth work, in conclusion we emphasize the necessity of a forward-looking model that is tailored for youth NGOs. The findings of this review lay the theoretical foundation for designing such a model, which should not only evaluate current digital capacity, but also suggest ways to navigate towards a more participatory, secure, inclusive and innovative digital future.

Suggested Citation

  • Madalin Gabriel Florea & Gabriela Mesnita, 2025. "Digital Transformation And Digital Maturity Models In Digital Youth Work Sector: A Critical Review," EUFIRE Conference Proceedings Series, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University Publisher, vol. 1(1), pages 119-132, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:cxa:eu2025:v:1:y:2025:i:1:p:119-132
    DOI: 10.47743/eufire-2025-1-10
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. ., 2022. "Introduction to digital transformation and social policy," Chapters, in: Participation Income, chapter 1, pages 1-16, Edward Elgar Publishing.
    2. repec:bcp:journl:v:8:y:2024:i:11:p:376-383 is not listed on IDEAS
    3. Åsa Waara, 2025. "Examining Digital Government Maturity Models: Evaluating the Inclusion of Citizens," Administrative Sciences, MDPI, vol. 15(3), pages 1-21, February.
    4. Roman Teichert, 2019. "Digital Transformation Maturity: A Systematic Review of Literature," Acta Universitatis Agriculturae et Silviculturae Mendelianae Brunensis, Mendel University Press, vol. 67(6), pages 1673-1687.
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    JEL classification:

    • O14 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Industrialization; Manufacturing and Service Industries; Choice of Technology
    • O32 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Management of Technological Innovation and R&D
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes

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