Digitalization of Russian social work: modern practice and ways of development

The paper presents the results of research on the digitalization of modern domestic social work based on the analysis of official documents, assessments of the scientific community, a survey of specialists of social service organizations and social protection agencies in various regions (Moscow, Volgograd, Mordovia). A comparative analysis of international experience is conducted to determine the specifics of Russian practice. It is shown that at the micro-level and meso-level of digitalization implementation, individual and group restrictions act as a limiting factor. The use of new technologies and equipment for the administration of organizational processes dominates, and there is still insufficient institutionalized use of electronic methods and tools for the main purpose of social work - providing specialized assistance to specific people in need. The directions of professional development of managers and specialists, development of technical support for the digitalization process are outlined.