So, Should We Patent That?

摘要

Our team has been working hard to solve an important production problem. Finally, a technicalbreakthrough means that the problem can be solved! The customer is going to be happy. At thewrap-up meeting, someone asks, “So, should we patent that?” What are our options? How willwe decide?Four options are:1) File a patent.2) Maintain the invention as a trade secret.3) Disclose the invention. Why would we ever choose to do disclose our invention?4) Do nothing and get on with your other high priority work.