Protect What Matters
You don’t have to become a patent attorney — but you do need to think ahead. Intellectual property (IP) strategy is about knowing which parts of your idea are unique, what’s worth protecting, and how that protection aligns with your goals. It’s also about knowing when *not* to lock things down.
Take Stock of What You’ve Got
IP isn’t just patents. It could be your brand name, your design style, your source code, or even your business process. The goal is to understand the landscape and decide if — and how — to act.
- What might be protectable? Think beyond tech — names, taglines, UX patterns, methods.
- How defensible is it? Can it be patented, trademarked, or copyrighted? Is it even worth it?
- Timing: Should you file now, or wait until you’ve validated more?
- Strategy: Do you want to block others, or simply signal ownership?
How It Played Out
A founder of a physical product company was ready to file patents immediately. But after reviewing their IP strategy, they realized the real value was in their brand and supply chain — not their mechanism. They trademarked the brand name and held off on patents until sales proved interest. That saved thousands and focused their energy.
Make It Yours
- 🔍 Try This: List all your “differentiators” — then circle what could be protected
- 📄 Tool: IP Strategy Worksheet (Coming Soon)
- ⏭️ Next: Stakeholder & User Interviews →