Intellectual capital dynamics in universities: A reporting model

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to analyse the increasing attention to universities and research organizations at political level and the growing implementation in these institutions of intellectual capital (IC) management and reporting mechanisms, traditionally used by private companies. The objective of the paper is twofold. On one hand, to present an IC report specially designed for universities, suggesting a battery of indicators for resources related to research activity, and, on the other hand, to move one step forward and discuss current challenges in relation to establishing standards for universities to manage and report on their IC and the difficulties in capturing the process dynamics. Design/methodology/approach – The paper reviews recent literature both on conceptual issues and experiences in relation to IC. The Austrian IC report, the observatory of European university exercise and some recent experiences of the Madrid regional government concerning Madrid universities are analysed. Both theory and practice contribute to the development of an IC reporting and management model for universities. Findings – A model for reporting and managing IC resources in universities and research organisations is suggested. IC dynamics are discussed and current shortcomings of IC analysis presented. The latter points may define the research agenda in the field. Originality/value – Available experiences are used to discuss possibilities and difficulties in showing the dynamics of higher education institutions by means of an IC report.