System and method for enabling an intellectual property transaction

Abstract

A comprehensive platform for merchandising intellectual property (IP) and conducting IP transactions is disclosed. A standardized data collection method enables IP assets to be characterized, rated and valuated in a consistent manner. Project management, workflow and data security functionality enable consistent, efficient and secure interactions between the IP Marketplace participants throughout the IP transaction process. Business rules, workflows, valuation models and rating methods may be user defined or based upon marketplace, industry or technology standards.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application is a continuation of, claims priority to and the benefit of, U.S. Ser. No. 12 / 640,716 filed Dec. 17, 2009 and entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ENABLING AN INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY TRANSACTION,” which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD OF INVENTION[0002]The present invention generally relates to providing a trading marketplace, and more particularly, to providing an automated platform to enable intellectual property transactions.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]The marketplace for intellectual property (IP) assets tends to underperform due to several issues. For example, the marketplace is fragmented and the marketplace generally lacks defined channels for buyers, sellers and service providers to find each other and transact. The marketplace also lacks standardization in that many potential deals either never materialize or are not completed because of a lack of standards, centralized knowledge and best practices. Moreover,...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a system that matches a buyer's request for IP asset attributes with a standardized IP transaction workflow. It then generates a transaction task list with logistical support and provides post-transaction activities such as tracking patent maintenance fee payments and calculating royalty payments. In summary, the system streamlines the IP transaction process and enables efficient commercialization of IP assets.

Problems solved by technology

The marketplace for intellectual property (IP) assets tends to underperform due to several issues.

For example, the marketplace is fragmented and the marketplace generally lacks defined channels for buyers, sellers and service providers to find each other and transact.

The marketplace also lacks standardization in that many potential deals either never materialize or are not completed because of a lack of standards, centralized knowledge and best practices.

Moreover, many IP transactors (buyers and sellers) lack the tools to accomplish the steps that comprise a successful IP transaction.

However, these attempts fall short of providing a universal, end-to-end solution.

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