Service: Patent Landscaping

This service comprises a detailed review of the competitive IP relative to the research group’s specific area of interest. This service is ideal for technology projects moving towards the market as well as mature protected technologies that could be exploited more strongly.

What

This service comprises a detailed review of the competitive IP relative to the research group’s specific area of interest. Trends and features in the data can be identified through patent analytics.

Why

There are numerous reasons for conducting a patent landscape such as:

  • Investigating the potential “white space” in a technology area where a broader patent could potentially be filed
  • Identifying competitors and which specific technologies they are filing patents in
  • Identifying potential licensees including possible infringers who could be encouraged to take a license of rights.
  • Understanding potential IP risks posed by competitors in a technology area
  • Informing commercialisation pathway decisions by identifying where prior art is most densely concentrated

How

An initial call is conducted with the research group to understand the technology area and obtain information already known about the competitive space. A search string is subsequently developed which defines the scope of the patent search and what is/isn’t considered relevant technology. The search string is used to construct a patent dataset.

Patent visualisation charts are drawn to show key metrics,the relative competitive positions of key players and commentary on the findings from the graphics are added.

Deliverable

A written report in the form of a slide deck.

Outcome

This service is particularly valuable when considering competitors in a given technology space. In particular, a landscape would assist in:

  • Identifying white space to influence the future filing direction
  • Convincing investors that the PRO or university is in a strong position relative to its competitors
  • Informing the product development team of innovations arising in the same technology field
  • Providing suggestions with regards to registering further IP rights
  • Identifying licensing opportunities or commercial partnership opportunities

Ideal for

Technology projects moving towards the market as well as mature protected technologies that could be exploited more strongly.