You have invented something new. Something useful. Maybe even something that can change the world. And now comes the question: do you protect it with a patent, or do you share it openly?
Many companies choose to patent. It gives them exclusive rights and control over how the technology is used. In return for legal protection, the invention is made public.
But that is not the only way forward. Some organizations prefer to contribute to the wider community, lower barriers or encourage collaboration. For them, sharing knowledge can be just as strategic as protecting it.
There are different ways to do that, for instance:
- Open source for software, hardware or processes.
- Royalty free licensing where the technology is patented but openly available.
- Patent pledges as a public commitment not to enforce certain rights.
- Technical publications to spread knowledge.
The right approach depends on what you want your invention to do and who you want it to reach.
Not sure which direction fits best? Feel free to reach out. I am happy to think along.