Why start-up companies should consider the benefits of patenting
By Charles Pigeon, Burnet, Duckworth & Palmer LLP
Still somewhat misunderstood, patents can be a powerful tool to help start-up companies move to the next level. Given that start-ups are just ‘’starting’’ they can rarely offer immediate value for potential investors. Patents are one way where a start-up company can ‘’level’’ the playing field against established competitors.
First off, to overcome a common misconception, patents are not a right to manufacture but rather a right to prevent others from using. This means that obtaining a patent on a certain technology is not a guarantee of risk-free product launch.
When deciding to file a patent application, the applicant should have a clear understanding on how the patent application will fit with the business goals of the company. It cannot be stressed enough that patents are one of the many facets of a business and it is critical for business owners to understand how they can derive the maximum value out of their patent portfolio.
It is best to discuss with a patent agent in detail the research goals of the company as well as its business goals and timelines. Once a patent agent has this information, a patenting strategy outline can be devised to achieve the goals of the company as well as manage the expectations of the executives. Depending on the technology being developed, a patent agent will be a in good position to advise on whether something is patentable, the timeline to obtain a patent in various jurisdictions as well as, in some cases, the likelihood of actually securing patent rights.
A good relationship between a company and its agent allows for faster decision-making and more informed advice, a ‘win-win’ on both sides. The library of relevant knowledge is but one example of such synergistic relationship.
When an invention can be reversed engineered or determined through scientific analysis it is important to attempt to secure patent rights in order to maintain monopoly on the invention. When something cannot be reversed engineered or otherwise determined through other methods, then comes the choice a company faces between patenting the technology or keeping it as a trade secret. More on that on the next blog.
Whether you are a new or early-stage looking for more information on patents or other intellectual property, please reach out to Charles Pigeon.
