The IP Strategic Dealer

Abstract

Firms defined as IP Strategic Dealers are the most adept at working with IP, using best practice or being at an advanced stage approaching best practice. These are internationally oriented, innovative firms that are continuously challenged both by other IP Strategic Dealers encroaching on their market position and by infringement of their IP rights. The IP Strategic Dealer has a formalized IP strategy as an integrated part of the firm’s strategy, and commonly employs a dedicated IP manager. IP Strategic Dealers tend to have formalized their IP processes, many to the point where IP is integrated into the stage-gate models the firms use in product development. As a part of the formalized process, the IP Strategic Dealer has a systematic learning process, where experiences are retained and invoked into new routines. The IP Strategic Dealer employs multiple layers of protection, using several patents, trade secrets, trademarks, design rights and/or copyrights to protect firm assets. This provides the IP Strategic Dealer with a synergetic effect that increases the levels of protection. Not all Strategic Dealers are at the most advanced level, however all are strongly committed to using IP as a central part of their firm’s strategy and continuously learn and develop their competencies in working with IP.