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OK so you have something you think needs protecting.
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Do you know what type of Intellectual property (IP) you have? It may be that you have only one type or a number of different things you need. This simple guide will help you get started:

Yes No

Please answer these questions:

  • Do you know if you need a Patent, Design, Trademark, Copyright or Domain Name?
    The more people that know about an idea or invention the more likely it is to become either copied or recorded in a way to make your idea not unique anymore. When you have a good idea and you think it is of value then the key is to start the process of patenting it to give your idea protection from others using your idea. This is one of the key factors as to why people create patents so that it protects their idea as they develop and apply it.
  • These simple questions will help you determine what type of IP you have:

    If you were to describe your intellectual property which of the options below is the best description?
    (you can select one or all of the options)
    • An idea or invention that is a new product or process that has significant and novel innovation?
    • Business Brand name, Logo or phrase describing the business product or service
    • Written word, artwork and photographs, drawings or music
    • You want to create a website with a unique web name
  • Which best describes your idea, invention or innovation?
    • New product or part of a product
    • Unique appearance that affects the decoration of the item, not its function
  • Which best describes your idea, invention or innovation?
    • New product or part of a product
    • Unique appearance that affects the decoration of the item, not its function
    • New process or method of doing something
      You are describing something that could be a process or method patent. These patents are not applicable in the UK but they are available in other countries if you think this idea has application beyond the UK then you should about applying for a patent in another jurisdiction
    • Written or spoken words and images but not specific names or logos
    • An address you can use on the Internet for both websites and emails
    • A sign which can distinquish your goods and services from those of your competitors. It can be for example words, logos or a combination of both