Using an AHP rating model to select a suitable approach to Intellectual Capital Management: the case of a not-for-profit welfare service

Although a large number of models and tools for managing Intellectual Capital (IC) have been introduced in the literature, the practical operationalisation of IC management still remains challenging. In particular, how managers can better evaluate and select a proper IC management approach represents a critical issue. Selecting a suitable IC management approach is a complex decision-making problem which involves a set of factors affecting the choice. As many factors should be taken into account in that decision, the problem can be tackled using multi-criteria methods. Through a synthesis of management literature regarding the approaches to IC management and the factors affecting their choice, the paper develops an AHP rating model, which keeps in focus the most meaningful elements to be considered in making decision on IC management. The paper presents the results of the application of the model within a not-for-profit organization