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Warren Coughlin
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By Warren Coughlin

Warren is a business coach with ActionCoach, who is committed to helping entrepreneurs and executives grow themselves and their businesses so they can live the lives they seek. He has been recognized as the Canadian Coach of the Year Award (2005), The Top Performing Coach Award (2006) and as one of the top 10 coaches among the 1000+ coaches around the world in ActionCoach.


Hi Warren, I have an "invention" in the area of computer technology and I have being toying with the idea of looking into getting a patent. A professor of mine in a business law class seemed to cast a dim light on patents, as he says they are costly and companies can merely change a very slight detail and produce basically the same product that was patented. In your opinion, is it worth spending the money and getting a patent, assuming your invention is novel/new?

– Bryan



Hi Bryan, Your professor is both right and wrong, in my opinion...

Here is the best answer I can give that will likely be unsatisfactory: It really depends on how encompassing your patent can be. If the patent can be broad enough, then it may well be worthwhile. If it is narrow, then I agree with your professor. And that can only be determined by a qualified lawyer.

Another issue is your ability to enforce it. One of the things to remember about a patent is that it is up to the patent holder to pursue violators. The government or police won't stop anyone from violating your patent. Therefore if you don't have the fortitude to pursue someone, then a patent will only function as a potential deterrent. So, my suggestion is take it to a lawyer who specializes in patents.

Good luck!

Warren

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