How to proactively protect intellectual property from infringement

Intellectual property infringement comes at a great cost for businesses.  In the consumer goods sector, manufacturers face challenges in counterfeiting, while digital goods producers face the threat of piracy.  All organizations face issues in copyright and trademark infringement.  With increasing growth, globalization, and digital spread of content and information, it’s important to take these steps to keep IP rights protected.

Register the appropriate IP protection

Image source: Pixabay.com   

Register a given work to put your claim into the public view and discourage other parties from using it without permission.  This involves registering copyright, applying for a patent or provisional patent, or registering trademark.  Maintain this protection, too, such as renewing trademark on time and filing the paperwork documenting use.

Keep it a secret

Image source: Pixabay.com   

Some forms of IP are best protected when you stay mum about it.  If the work isn’t patentable or you prefer to protect it via the trade secrets law, limit the number of people who know about it.  Don’t forget about non-disclosure agreements.

Watch the marketplace

Keep an eye on the industry such as paying attention to new products and companies, setting up online alerts to know about mentions that are similar to your work, and probing products that appear similar to yours.

Make sure not to violate IP rights, too

Plan and prepare ahead before promoting a product, service, or material for your business.  Research related patents and copyrights, and read the terms and conditions in all contracts and licenses for all types of content.  When in doubt, ask a lawyer.

TME Enterprises was established by Attorney Michael E. Melton. The enterprise owns, operates, and manages Taco Bell and Five Guys Burgers restaurants and commercial real estate. For similar updates, visit this page.