The key findings of the report are illustrated through six case studies showing how ‘virtual’ charities such as Youthnet are using the internet to deliver services online and develop relationships as well as how traditional charities like the Family Holiday Association have been able to expand their services by adopting online technology to streamline administration process.

The report's three key recommendations are:

1. Charities need to have a clear vision and strong leadership
2. More research is needed in to information and data security
3. Organisations should hold knowledge sharing events for others

Sutch added that the Trust had already acted on some of the points made in the report by funding new programmes and that it would be pleased to hear from anyone with ideas or solutions to the issues raised.

The research was carried out by Dr Eleanor Burt, senior lecturer at the School of Management at the University of St Andrews and Professor John Taylor, professor emeritus of government and information management at Caledonian Business School who carried out interviews with charities and discussing the findings with a focus group.