Expenditure on research activities is recognised as an expense in the period in which it is incurred, as it is not possible to demonstrate that such activities will generate probable future economic benefits.
Development expenditure is capitalised as an intangible asset only when the Group can demonstrate the technical feasibility of completing the asset so that it will be available for use or sale, its intention and ability to complete the asset, how the asset will generate probable future economic benefits, the availability of adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the development, and the ability to measure reliably the expenditure attributable to the asset during its development.
Capitalised development costs are stated at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment losses. Amortisation is charged on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset, which is typically between five and ten years, commencing when the asset is available for use.
Where it is not possible to distinguish the research phase from the development phase of an internal project, the expenditure is treated as having been incurred in the research phase only.