IPManagement

IP management is the systematic governance of an organization's intellectual property assets, aimed at maximizing value and mitigating risk throughout the IP lifecycle. It encompasses creation, protection, maintenance, exploitation, and enforcement of rights across multiple jurisdictions.

The main types of IP include patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, industrial designs, and domain names. Each type has distinct requirements for protection, duration, and disclosure, and may be registered or kept confidential.

Core activities follow a lifecycle beginning with idea capture and invention disclosures, ownership assignment, and evaluation; followed by protection through filings and prosecution, then maintenance including renewal monitoring; exploitation through licensing, collaborations, or assignments; and enforcement through monitoring, opposition, negotiations, or litigation. Modern IP programs also consider open and collaborative models, such as open licensing or shared innovation agreements, and the protection of trade secrets even in open environments.

Governance covers policy development, roles (IP counsel or manager, inventors, business units, licensing teams), and processes for intake, review, approval, and contract drafting. A robust program uses docketing systems, IP valuation where appropriate, audits, and training to ensure compliance with confidentiality and assignment requirements.

Strategically, IP management aligns with business goals, supports monetization, and manages risk. Metrics may include asset count, maintenance costs, prosecution success, licensing revenue, and time to grant. Global considerations include jurisdictional protection, treaty frameworks, and compliance with standards set by WIPO and TRIPS.