What it means is what it does: a comparative analysis of implementing intellectual capital in Norway and Spain

Abstract

The implementation of the intellectual capital (IC) concept at firm level introduces a new vocabulary to the existing language set. Firms are attempting to make sense of the concept and, in the process, operationalize it in terms of specific management tools. This paper provides a comparative analysis of intellectual capital trajectories in Norway and Spain. Although the implementation designs are different (selected small and medium-sized enterprises and sector in Norway and more non-selected in Spain), the paper finds that a dominant accounting perspective can lead to an excessive focus on measurement issues and little attention to management processes. Alternatively, introducing IC with a broader and less defined focus might help newcomers to experiment with the concept in a more open-minded way. In non-experienced firms the entrance point matters, as it defines the meaning for new words and concepts such as intellectual capital or intangibles.

Intellectual capital in small and medium enterprises in Pakistan

“…Secondly, it is the combination of intangible assets that is used to create and establish value for a firm (Chaminade and Roberts, 2003). Thirdly, the organization cannot own the human capital assets but can utilize them on a rent basis.…”

The effect of audit committee characteristics on intellectual capital disclosure

“…Chaminade & Roberts, 2003;Habersam & Piber, 2003;Aboody & Lev, 2000) and the increased demand for information about IC assets by the capital markets in firm valuation (Lev, 2001;Holland, 2003;2006 a, b). Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate whether corporate governance mechanisms influence the firm's IC disclosure practice.…”

“…Chaminade & Roberts, 2003;Habersam & Piber, 2003) and is the key to building competitive advantage and creating significant shareholder value (e.g. Bukh, 2003;Holland, 2003).…”

Management accounting and knowledge management: in search of intelligibility

“…Information may also be viewed simply as data interpreted into a meaningful framework. Knowledge then becomes information that has been authenticated and contextualised (Chaminade and Roberts, 2003). Ultimately, knowledge is information that is made actionable.…”