Inventor Warning: Caution is the Keyword in Dealing with IPHC’s

by admin | Mar 8, 2010 | Intellectual Property, Inventors, Licensing, Money, The Kitchen Sink

I recently had a call from a patent attorney who wanted me to introduce him to my clients so that he could offer to buy their intellectual property from them. He has, what is called, an “Intellectual Property Holding Company” or “IPHC”. IPHC’s come in essentially...

Can I do it Myself?

by admin | Feb 21, 2010 | Inventors, Licensing, Marketing

I get asked this question all the time, “Can I patent it myself?” Technically, yes, you can. However, my answer is always No. No! and Absolutely NO!! Doing your own patent work is like doing your own brain surgery. By the time you realize you’ve made a mistake, it’s...

The Inventor’s Business Plan

by admin | Feb 12, 2010 | Intellectual Property, Inventors, Licensing, Marketing, Money, The Kitchen Sink

Inventors frequently swing to two extremes when it comes to their business plan. The first one is simply: have idea – get patent – make money.  I can’t even tell you how many ways this is a flawed plan.  This plan is relevant only in fantasy land and real inventors...

How Important is a Trademark?

by admin | Nov 22, 2009 | Intellectual Property, Licensing, Marketing

Your trademark can be as valuable to you as a patent and possibly more.  Consumers identify with your trademark, not your patent.  Most consumers don’t care if you have a patent as long as you have a great product.  When was the last time you went into a store and...

Too Soon To Manufacture?

by admin | Oct 12, 2009 | Inventors, Licensing, Money, The Kitchen Sink

A few weeks ago an inventor told me that he was checking into the cost of manufacturing before having his patent search reviewed.  This was a bit out of order but not a huge issue.  You want to understand the costs involved before jumping off the cliff.  However, I...