Intellectual capital practices and performance in Russian enterprises

Purpose This paper seeks to present and discuss research that investigates the impact of intellectual capital practices on enterprise performance in small innovative enterprises (SIEs) in the St Petersburg, Russia region. Design/methodology/approach Research fieldwork uses a survey questionnaire focusing on technology‐intensive SIEs in the St Petersburg region, supported by a select number of follow‐up interviews. The research analysis is based on quantitative statistical evaluation of the research data. Findings Intellectual capital, particularly structural and human capital, is perceived by Russian managers of SIEs to be a primary determinant of enterprise performance, thereby substantiating the importance of the resource‐based view for enterprise performance – even in the transitional economy of Russia. Research limitations/implications The research reported in this paper is limited by the relatively small sample size of firms surveyed; the quantitative research is based on perceptions of managers. Practical implications The research points to some key dimensions of intellectual capital‐related practices that are particularly important for enterprise performance. Originality/value The research reported in this paper brings together a unique combination of research related to the resource‐based view of the firm in the setting of small innovative enterprises in a transitional economy environment.