• Intellectual property protection is a lengthy process - one that a business owner needs to start before he actually goes into business
• Realize that no matter if you patent your product or not, a larger company with deep pockets can copy your idea. The issue becomes whether or not you can afford the dollars and time it takes to defend your patent. Outline:
1. Discuss what types of things are covered by a patent, a copyright, and a trademark/service mark
2. Discuss how one starts the patent process, including the keeping of notes and drawings
3. Know the different agencies associated with a patent, a copyright, and a trademark.
4. Understand what happens to a business’ protection when a trademark becomes used as the generic name for the product it sells