PATENT: SEVEN WAYS TO KEEP YOU FROM THE WOLVES

We’ve talked about patent invention development companies in other areas of this site. Invention development companies are private and public research companies that purport to help inventors develop, and promote their ideas so they can be commercially licensed or sold.

While many of these organizations are legitimate, some are not.

Gadgets-gizmos-inventions has already stated it’s stand on the use of such companies. But, you may want to go that way anyway to develop your invention. If that’s the case, here are seven helpful tips for you to make smart invention development decisions:

1. Learn About the Process.?When you understand the basics of how to get a patent, you will know when invention marketers are making promises they, or the system, can't deliver.

Part of the reason for this website is to help you gain more information along that line - and we will continue to bring you more.

2. Do Your Homework. Check the organization's references, ask for credentials, and then check them. Ask them for statistics on how many successes they have had compared to how many total clients. They are required by law to offer you this type of information.

3. Be Realistic. ?Not every invention is patentable (check other pages on this site for more info). Be wary of any developer willing to promote virtually any invention.

4. Know Where Your Money Is Going. Ask the organization how your money will be spent. Be on guard against large up-front fees and find out exactly how the money is spent.

5. Protect Your Rights. DO NOT disclose your invention to a developer over the phone (or at any time) before first signing a confidentiality agreement. You could forfeit valuable rights.

6. Track Your Invention's Progress. ?If you decide to use an invention development organization, deal directly with the agent or attorney who will be handling your application. A lot of these types of firms outsource the work which is not good for you.

7. Don't Get Discouraged! The patent process can be very complicated, so, as we keep telling you, you will probably need professional help. There are many good agents and attorneys that can help you. The USPTO maintains a nationwide register of attorneys and agents who meet the legal, scientific and technical requirements of the office.

For information on registered patent attorneys and agents, you may visit the USPTO's Office of Enrollment and Discipline Web site at the US Patent &Trademark Office