Abstract
In this chapter we present the scope, direction and dimension of an IP strategy. Developing an IP strategy is vital to ensuring that any IP related activities are aligned with the overall goals and objectives of the firm. An IP Strategy should consist of the objectives, principles and tactics related to using IP within the firm. Three types of IP Strategy are presented: a proprietary strategy, which uses IP to shield the firm’s competitive advantage; the defensive strategy, which focuses on ensuring the firm has the freedom to operate in the future; and the leveraging strategy, which uses IP as a bargaining chip. We present a taxonomy of an IP strategy, consisting of a patent strategy, a trademark strategy, a design right strategy, a copyright strategy, a trade secrets strategy and an enforcement strategy. Each of these parts of the overall IP strategy covers the scope of timing and geography, setting up criteria for when and where to apply for IP rights. The patent strategy is further expanded to cover technology, to help the firm decide which technologies to patent. As a part of the enforcement strategy, we present a model for an en forcement hierarchy, highlighting the different levels and methods available to enforce IP rights. In addition, the chapter introduces the basics of the different types of IP rights, providing an overview for the reader not familiar with IP rights.
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© 2015 Lars Alkaersig, Karin Beukel and Toke Reichstein
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Alkaersig, L., Beukel, K., Reichstein, T. (2015). IP Strategy. In: Intellectual Property Rights Management. Palgrave Macmillan, London. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137469533_7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137469533_7
Publisher Name: Palgrave Macmillan, London
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