ABSTRACT

This chapter shows various methods to help organizations better quantify the value of their information assets, and shed light on how key economic principles break down or need tweaking if they are to be applied to information assets. And because information assets may not be capitalized on balance sheets according to current accounting standards, these companies have a particular advantage over those whose business models rely heavily on traditional assets. Public companies are required to inventory, quantify, or assess the value of other assets, but not their information assets. Yet, these assets are either their primary source of revenue generation, or increasingly and tangibly contribute to their top line. Even intangible assets, such as copyrights, patents, and trademarks, are recognized and reported. Finally, it wrap up with a look at various IT, business, and information-related trends affecting your ability to monetize, manage, and measure information as a true asset.