BLOCKCHAIN-POWERED INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS FOR ENHANCING RESEARCH COLLABORATION, PRESERVING ACADEMIC AUTHORSHIP, AND AUTOMATING KNOWLEDGE SHARING

This study explores the integration of blockchain technology into intellectual capital management systems within academic environments to address persistent challenges in research collaboration, authorship preservation, and knowledge sharing. Employing a mixed-methods approach, including surveys of 500 academics from 20 universities and simulations using Ethereum-based smart contracts, the research evaluates the efficacy of blockchain in fostering secure, transparent ecosystems. Key findings reveal a 45% increase in collaborative outputs and a 60% reduction in authorship disputes when blockchain is implemented, alongside automated knowledge dissemination reducing sharing delays by 70%. These outcomes underscore blockchain's potential to revolutionize scholarly practices by enhancing trust and efficiency. The study concludes that while adoption barriers such as scalability persist, strategic policy interventions can accelerate integration, contributing to more equitable and innovative academic landscapes. Theoretical implications extend dynamic capabilities theory, while practical recommendations advocate for hybrid blockchain frameworks in higher education institutions