Analysis of ICT Investments. Towards a Methodological Guide with Focus on Estimation of Intangible Benefits

Abstract

Investments in Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) can provide firms with both tangible and intangible benefits (IBs). However, these investments are generally analyzed and evaluated by means of traditional methods, which focus on the measurement of the tangible to determine, mainly, the amount of profit that has been obtained. In this paper we develop the foundation of a methodological guide with focus on the estimation of IBs. For this, we present evidence that suggests that an analysis of the impact of ICT investments by focusing on the estimation of IBs may be based on the value chain of a business unit; we also provide a list of factors of intangible value of ICTs identified in the literature reviewed and propose stages to fulfill and variables to use so as to contribute for a comprehensive evaluation of said investments.

Keywords

• Estimation of intangible benefits
• ICT investments
• methodological guide
• value chain
• value factors