Think long term

Securing both domestic and international patent protection can protect the future of a startup business..Always remember that the highest amounts of funds for any startup are raised at stage 4 of a startups lifecycle: scale, when it can grow aggressively and maximize profits. Till then a startup company must weigh down its costs and employ simple, basic practices. However, sometimes a startup can start to scale quickly. At such a time a strong IP Portfolio must be prepared. In fact, during the past six months, the world’s largest innovators: Google, Microsoft and Apple have spent more than $18 billion for just the IP on their voice space. Explore the various options available (IP tasks can be brought in house or outsourced): While in housing is definitely cost effective, outsourcing can help in reducing legal fees. So various options should be explored and researched before a decision is made.