We look at several of the key mistakes that arise again
and again in relation to
intellectual property rights. Here are some practical tips on
how to ensure that you don't fall in to these
traps.
1. Not structuring correctly
Issue: All too often we see
entrepreneurs with excellent ideas, quality brands and great
systems fall at the first hurdle. Tax debts or litigation from a
third party can quickly end a fledgling business.
Solution: Begin with the end in
mind, by structuring correctly.
Intellectual property can be protected from trading risks,
counter party risks and other general risks by way of appropriate
structuring.
The classic example of correct structuring is the typical use of
intellectual property holding trusts or companies to hold all of
the brand, goodwill and copyright material forming the business
system that is the fundamental asset of a
franchise business. That intellectual property is then licensed
to the various master franchise
