Support Staff and Intellectual Capital: Evidence From the University Of Otago

Abstract

Intellectual capital is quickly becoming a source of competitive advantage. Therefore, it is important to ensure intellectual capital, consisting of human capital, structural capital, and relational capital, is being created and managed in an efficient way. Previous studies have demonstrated that the interaction between the three forms of capital significantly increase intellectual capital in private sector organisations. This study focuses on what has been argued as the largest producers of intellectual capital, higher education institutions; more specifically this study focuses on the University of Otago. The aim of this study is to determine whether ancillary support staff assist in the creation of intellectual capital at the University of Otago. As the University of Otago is a public organisation, it is important to ensure intellectual capital is managed efficiently to improve organisational performance.