Innovation in a Changing Economy: Ways to Maximize the Value of Your IP

In a tightening economy, maximizing the value of IP assets such as patents, copyrights and trademarks becomes critical as other types of assets lose value and available funds for innovation, marketing, development and enforcement decrease. This panel discussed ways to strengthen IP assets and maximize their value.

• Making the case for continuing innovation, marketing, development and enforcement  efforts in an economic downturn, including prioritizing for which patents, trademarks and/or copyrights protection should be sought and when
• Using patent re-examination as a proactive tool to strengthen your existing patent portfolio or challenge competitors’ patents
• Reducing or expanding your current IP portfolio, and the practical business and legal pros and cons of both strategies

Panelists:

• Rebecca Gibbs, Chief Intellectual Property Counsel, American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.
• Jeff Greene, Chair, Trademark, Copyright & Advertising Practice
• Michael Sapherstein, In-House Counsel, Marvel Characters, Inc.
• Michelle Simkin, Chair, Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Practice
• Michael Whitehead, Chief Counsel, Intellectual Property, The Lincoln Electric Company