This study develops a conceptual framework to guide empirical research on the utilization of indigenous nonprofessionals in human service organizations. The study is divided into six parts: (1) Identifies the different roles of nonprofessionals in organizations and specified factors which help define these roles; (2) Analyzes four studies in light of their bearing on these conceptual problems; (3) Examines five areas of sociological inquiry--organization and environment; professionals; cohesiveness and differentiation among professionals; organizational structure and innovativeness; and attitudes of the poor toward work; (4) Presents and explains the conceptual framework; (5) Describes a systematic field investigation of utilization of nonprofessionals in seven organizations; and (6) Utilizes the findings to evaluate and revise the conceptual framework. (NTIS)