A theoretical exploration of the perception of intellectual capital in a public context: Evidence from the literature

Abstract

A specific source of wealth declined in several forms; intellectual capital constitutes the essence of today's economy. In recognition of its importance, the present contribution is conceived to highlight the concept of intellectual capital in a particular context that is increasingly focused on knowledge and information management. 

Now more than in any other circumstance, the public sector is forced to reiterate its management process and reorganize the public ecosystem, hence, the need to take an innovative approach, taking in consideration new factors in which immateriality is taking on a very significant importance.

In this vein, we present an exhaustive discussion of the fundamental theoretical perspectives concerning intellectual capital, in order to identify theoretically its most relevant components for a public structure, while highlighting its importance. This is followed by an analysis of the main empirical studies, aiming to visualize the development of research in managing intellectual capital in public organizations and its effect on the performance of these entities.