PATENT PROTECTION AS A STRATEGIC TOOL FOR MODERN ENTERPRISES

Abstract

The main purpose of the patent system is to ensure protection of valuable technological knowledge and thus to provide incentives to creative effort and investment in R&D. However, patents are more intensively used by enterprises for various other strategic reasons, eg. attracting potential investors and partners, blocking competitors, generate licensing revenues or creating positive image of the company. As a result, the patent strategies of modern enterprises are becoming broader and more complex. The aim of this paper is to present opportunities and challenges related to the use of patent protection mechanisms as a strategic tool for modern enterprises. The study provides also a literature review on strategic use of patents and indicates the most promising directions for further research in this area.