Invention harvesting is a proactive and systematic process of identifying and documenting potentially valuable inventions within an organization. It’s like unearthing hidden treasures within a company’s research and development activities. Essentially, it’s a way to ensure that innovative ideas and concepts are not overlooked or lost, but rather captured and evaluated for their potential to be protected with intellectual property.
This process often involves engaging with inventors, engineers, and researchers through various methods such as brainstorming sessions, interviews, and reviews of internal documents and project reports. The goal is to encourage a culture of innovation and facilitate the sharing of ideas, even those that may seem initially insignificant or incomplete. By systematically gathering these concepts, companies can identify potential inventions that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Once potential inventions are identified, they are assessed for their novelty, usefulness, and commercial viability. This evaluation process should involve patent attorneys who can provide guidance on patentability and strategic considerations. Invention harvesting is not just about identifying inventions; it’s also about fostering a culture of innovation and ensuring that valuable intellectual property is created. This can lead to increased patent filings, stronger patent portfolios, and a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
Ultimately, invention harvesting is a valuable tool for companies seeking to maximize the return on their research and development investments. By actively seeking out and capturing innovative ideas, companies can transform these concepts into valuable assets that drive growth and success.
