Patents, designs and copyright.
WHAT A PATENT PROTECTS
An invention that is new, involves an inventive step, and is capable of industrial application.
WHERE IT IS REGISTERED
The registry within the relevant ministry.
WHAT IT REQUIRES
A specification describing the invention Claims defining what is protected Drawings, where applicable Fees
WHY DISCLOSURE TIMING MATTERS
Publicly disclosing before filing can destroy novelty.
WHAT TO DO
File before disclosing.
WHAT A DESIGN REGISTRATION PROTECTS
The appearance of an article.
WHAT COPYRIGHT PROTECTS
Original literary, musical, artistic and other works, including software.
WHAT REGISTRATION DOES FOR COPYRIGHT
Copyright generally arises automatically on creation.
WHY NOTIFICATION IS STILL USEFUL
A notification scheme provides evidence of the work and its date.
WHO ADMINISTERS IT
The copyright commission.
WHAT EVIDENCE MATTERS IN A DISPUTE
Creation date Authorship Originality
WHAT TO KEEP
Drafts, files with dates, and records of creation.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT WORK CREATED BY OTHERS
Obtain written assignment.
WHY
Without it, the creator may retain rights.
WHAT THAT AFFECTS
Software written by contractors Designs and content commissioned
WHAT TO ENGAGE
An intellectual property practitioner, for anything valuable.
