INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
Intellectual property is a type of intangible property created by human intellect. There are five basic types of intellectual property:
TRADEMARKS
What is a trademark?
A trademark is a design, logo, symbol, word, or combination of words, that are federally registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Trademarks not only identify the origin of a product or service, but they can also convey your company’s goals and what is important to your company. Trademarks are also a great way for your customers to easily find you.
COPYRIGHTS
What is a copyright?
A copyright is a type of intellectual property that protects the original composition of artists, including artistic, dramatic, literary, and musical works. These include everything from books, movies, poetry, and songs to architecture, apps, and computer software.
PATENTS
What is a patent?
A patent is a type of intellectual property that protects an invention and allows the owner to prevent anyone else from using, selling, marketing, developing, or importing the creation. There are three basic types of patents that can be obtained: utility patents, design patents, or plant patents.
What is a trade secret?
Trade secrets are a type of intellectual property that includes any confidential business information which gives a business an economic advantage over its competitors. Trade secrets can be company processes, designs, recipes, formulas, techniques, and methods. Trade secrets often protect the way things are done or made rather than the thing itself. In some circumstances, vendor and client lists may also be considered trade secrets. The protection of trade secrets are often vital to the operation of a business.