11/10/2025
Two Stages (as per IAS 38 / LKAS 38 – Intangible Assets)
1. Research Phase
This is the early stage — searching for new ideas or knowledge.
The goal is to discover something new, but it’s uncertain if it will succeed.
Examples:
Investigating new materials.
Testing scientific ideas.
Exploring different design options.
✅ Accounting Treatment:
All research costs are expensed in the period they occur.
→ Because there is no guarantee that the research will result in a future benefit.
2. Development Phase
This is the later stage — applying the research findings to create or improve products before they are ready for use or sale.
The project is now more certain and feasible.
Examples:
Designing and testing a prototype.
Building a model for production.
Developing new software ready for release.
✅ Accounting Treatment:
Development costs are capitalised (recorded as an intangible asset) only if all the following six criteria are met:
🧾 Six Criteria for Capitalising Development Costs (IAS 38.57)
Technical feasibility – it is possible to complete the project.
Intention to complete – management plans to finish and use/sell it.
Ability to use or sell – the product can be used or sold.
Future economic benefits – it will generate profits or savings.
Availability of resources – there are enough funds, labour, and materials to finish it.
Reliable measurement – the costs can be measured reliably.
If even one condition is not met, all development costs must be expensed.