Definition

An intellectual property management tool (IPMT) is a digital platform or software that allows businesses to record, track, protect, leverage, and defend their intellectual property (IP) assets. It facilitates the management of rights such as patents, trademarks, designs, copyrights, domain names, and related contracts (licenses, assignments, etc.). The IPMT is essential for ensuring a coherent and effective IP strategy, particularly in terms of compliance, competitive monitoring, and financial valuation.

Main features

• IP asset inventory: Identification and registration of rights owned by the company.
• Deadline tracking: Alerts for renewal, filing, or protection dates.
• Document management: Centralization of contracts, certificates, correspondences, and evidence of use.
• Portfolio analysis: Assessment of asset value, identification of risks, and opportunities.
• Legal and competitive monitoring: Surveillance of third-party filings and legislative developments.
• Dispute management: Tracking of actions related to infringement, oppositions, or legal procedures.

Benefits for the company

• Optimization of the IP strategy: Identification of key assets and strategic geographical areas.
• Reduction of legal risks: Anticipation of potential conflicts and proactive management of rights.
• Financial valuation: Utilizing IP assets in financing, sale, or partnership operations.
• Regulatory compliance: Adherence to legal obligations concerning the protection and exploitation of rights.

Legal framework in France

The IPMT operates within the framework of the French Intellectual Property Code (CPI), which governs rights related to creations of the mind. Relevant articles include:

• Article L111-1: Defines copyright as an exclusive intangible property right, enforceable against all.
• Article L112-1: States that works of the mind are protected regardless of their genre, form, expression, merit, or destination.
• Article L611-1: Relates to the protection of inventions through patents.
• Article L711-1: Concerns the protection of trademarks.

These articles establish the legal basis for the registration, protection, and exploitation of IP rights, which are essential to manage through an IPMT.

Available tools and solutions

Several software solutions are available for IP management:

• PATTSY WAVE®: Automated IP case management software, designed for professionals seeking an effective and adaptable tool.
• Coexya Intellect: Offers IP management solutions, allowing creators to benefit from their work while gaining moral recognition.
• INPI IP Diagnostic Tool: An online tool provided by the French National Institute of Industrial Property to assess the level of protection of a company’s IP.

These tools facilitate the daily management of IP rights and contribute to an optimal protection and valuation strategy.

FAQ

1. What is an intellectual property management Tool (IPMT)?
   An IPMT is a digital platform or software that allows companies to manage their intellectual property assets, such as patents, trademarks, designs, and copyrights, by centralizing information and facilitating their protection and valuation.
2. What are the benefits of using an IPMT?
   The IPMT optimizes the company’s IP strategy, reduces legal risks, financially values IP assets, and ensures regulatory compliance in the protection and exploitation of rights.
3. What software solutions are available for IP management?
   Solutions like PATTSY WAVE®, Coexya Intellect, and INPI’s IP Pre-Diagnosis tool are available to help automate the management of IP assets, offering tools for tracking, analysis, and protection tailored to businesses’ needs.