Commercial success is always based on goal-oriented product development. A patent is a powerful means to protect and build on the investments made in product development. Patents have many business uses, which include securing sales opportunities, providing leverage in negotiations in tough market situations and enhancing the promotion of knowledge. A wisely managed patent portfolio is an invaluable resource for a company.

Patents can be issued for industrially viable inventions that are new and essentially differ from earlier inventions. A patent entitles its holder to prohibit others from making professional use of the invention. Professional use is a broad concept that covers such aspects as production, import, sale and use. Depending on the individual requirements, the patent can be targeted to protect an extensive area or a very specific part of the business chain.

Because of the diversity of competitors and potential users of the invention, comprehensive and appropriate patent protection requires thorough examination. Good patents have no formula. In addition to the specifics of the invention, the application must also be customised to the targets of the business in question.

A patent only entitles its holder to impose prohibitions. For this reason, making actual use of the patent calls for an active approach. The patenting, the invested resources and the active use of the ensuing rights must be well aligned with the company’s business strategy.

More information:

Helsinki: Mr. Sami Mäkinen, IP Consultant, tel. +358 10 227 2232
Tampere: Mr. Kim Simelius, Patent Attorney, Managing Director, tel. +358 10 227 2610
Turku: Ms. Kaisa Suominen, European Patent Attorney, tel. +358 10 227 2550