4th August – Software and IP

TusPark Newcastle

1000 – Introduction to TusPark (Dr Colin Tan)

1015 – Introductions (Dr James Pitchford and Dr Michael Charlton), overview of IP and deeper diveinto patents for software inventions

The seminar will introduce attendees to the patentability requirements in respect of computer-implemented (software) inventions. The overview part of our IP seminar will focus on identifying and securing commercially relevant IP rights, including patents, trade marks and designs. It will also discuss rights such as copyright that can arise automatically and might already exist. Particular emphasis will be placed on IP of most relevance to growth-stage companies as they scale up their commercial presence and expand their R&D activities, although the principles are also applicable to larger established companies. We will then look into patents in greater detail, including discussing when, what, and where to file. Audience participation is encouraged throughout.

1115 – Short break

1120 – IP practicalities and tactics for software start-ups

1150 – Infringement and Freedom to Operate – avoiding (or attacking) third party patents

In this part of the seminar we will look into the subject of third party patents in greater detail, and specifically how third parties might look to enforce patents against infringers. We will also discuss how patents may be attacked in response to infringement actions, as well as why patents may need to be attacked before products enter the marketplace.

1210 – Q&A

1230 – Lunch

Opportunity to network over lunch, sponsored by Google, with fellow attendees. For those wishing to attend the afternoon IP clinics, a sign up sheet will be provided.

1330 – One-to-one IP clinicsand networking

For participants who have ideas they might be considering protecting, we will run confidential IP clinic sessions, with a patent attorney, to review/discuss a participant’s invention in detail, discuss the types of IP that may be applicable, and set out initial strategies in respect of obtaining IP protection. We often also discuss how the owner of the IP rights might then commercialise them – for example by licensing their IP in return for royalties. Before and after attending their IP clinics, attendees are encouraged to network.

1700 – Finish