IP Panorama- Course Notes

Module 1- The importance of IP in SMEs

The assets of a company can be split into two, physical and intangible assets. Traditionally physical
assets have held greater significance. However, with the emergence of IT and the rise of the global
service industry the balance has shifted in favor of intangible assets which are considered more
important now. In short, the large data warehouses are being replaced by powerful software and other
forms of high technology. These new emerging assets are protected by intellectual property rights or
IPR. That is, patents/utility models, copyright, trademarks, trade secrets and other rights.
Spending on IP is akin to making an investment for a company. Simply put, companies are valued
based on their assets. Therefore, the acquisition of important patents and copyrights can help boost the
company’s value. This could prove decisive for an SME and it can thus be considered crucial to build
a strong IP portfolio.

Module 2- Trademarks and Industrial Designs

A trademark is a sign capable of distinguishing the goods or services of one enterprise from those of
other enterprises. Trademarks are protected by intellectual property rights. In principle, a trademark
registration will confer an exclusive right to the use of the registered trademark. This implies that the
trademark can be exclusively used by its owner, or licensed to another party for use in return for
payment. Registration provides legal certainty and reinforces the position of the right holder, for
example, in case of litigation.