Senior Counsel Scott Penner is quoted in an article in
Diagnostic Imaging, “
The Radiologist’s Guide to Inventing,” about how best to introduce an invention to the market.
Penner said the technology transfer office (TTO) should be the first stop when pursuing an invention, particularly for those working in an academic environment. In many cases, a university will claim the patent, and inventors may have to give the academic institution the opportunity to have first right of refusal. In some cases, though, universities may give inventors permission to go forward on their own.
Ultimately, he said, the TTO can be an invaluable partner, helping to put inventors in touch with the right resources and to draft an effective business plan.