Q: I have a new invention but limited funds. Is it essential that I cover my intellectual property rights as I have heard that, in practice, it gives you little protection against infringements?
Sep 16 2010
Answered by: Simon Mosey Ask a question
The advice that we give to our entrepreneurs depends upon what type of invention they have. If your invention is a new way of doing business, for example using a new website, then in reality your protection options are limited. The good news is that as soon as you create your website then the copyright is automatically assigned to you and no one should copy it.
However copyright, although free and an automatic right only protects the expression of your idea, not the idea itself. So you need to maximise your first mover advantage and build up a reputation as being a good person to do business with in this new area.
If your invention is of a mechanical nature – a new widget for example – then there are a multitude of protection options open to you. Before you incur any costs you can investigate whether they are worthwhile. A good source of help is the UK Patent Office website and many patent attorneys will offer a free initial consultation.
Regardless of the type of invention, when discussing ideas with potential customers or business partners we advise the use of a non-disclosure agreement (copies of typical examples are available free of charge on the web). This shows that you are serious about your work and that there is some novelty in your offer. A good way to approach such discussions is to attract their interest by explaining what your invention can do and the benefits it provides. You should be able to do this in such a way that doesn’t reveal how it works, which is often the valuable knowledge that you don’t want to give away.
I have seen many of our student entrepreneurs discuss and develop their fledgling ideas with potential partners and customers in this way. They have used their judgment to continue working with those that they can trust and these relationships have enabled them to develop their ideas successfully without having to resort to enforcing intellectual property rights.
Dr Simon Mosey
Director UNIEI
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