Moving software through the tech transfer process requires speed, finesse

摘要

Apps and software are becoming more common in TTO portfolios, but they may require a slight reworking of how you think about IP and guide it to commercialization, experts say. This type of IP can be handled largely the same way you handle other technology, but there can be some unique aspects to keep in mind, says Daniel E. Sineway, JD, partner in the Technology/IP Group with Morris, Manning & Martin in Atlanta. Speed and rapid reaction to developments are key, he says. TTOs must find a licensee rapidly and in many cases will look to the researcher whose name is on the disclosure. The best recipe is when that researcher has the business acumen to turn the software into a business and get it to market quickly, Sineway says.