Impact of intellectual capital on research performance: an exploration in an Indian higher education institution

Purpose The study aims to examine the interplay of human capital (HC), organizational capital (OC) and relational capital (RC) and their impact on research performance (RP) of a higher educational institution (HEI) in India. Design/methodology/approach The authors conducted a quantitative case study with a sample of 63 academic staff/faculty members working in an Indian HEI. A conceptual framework was developed based on the theoretical underpinning of intellectual capital (IC) and was tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling. Findings The results show that HC and RC have a significant effect on RP of the HEI. However, OC does not have a direct significant effect unless mediated through HC and RC, indicating full mediation. Research limitations/implications The study responds to the call for empirical examinations across contexts. The findings in India validate the universality of the impact of IC on RP. Further, the study uncovers the mediating mechanism of various components of IC vis-à-vis their impact on RP. Practical implications Management teams of HEIs must take note of the need to nurture and manage IC to drive RP. Further, they must invest in and cultivate HC and RC to take advantage of OC. Originality/value The study attempts a first-of-its-kind examination of the mediating mechanism of IC components in the HEI context.