π – squaring the circle
iπ consulting pursues a heuristic approach in its consulting projects that has proven to be successful. Because no matter which goals a project pursues, it always involves adjustments in the process and organizational landscape. A structured approach is indispensable to master the complexities of the transition. Our formula is thus as simple as effective: Excite – Understand – Envision – Implement – Score.
Excite
The key to success rather depends on will than on skill. iπ consulting focuses on the motivation of project stakeholders. All players need to understand and internalize the necessity of a new mindset. The willingness to do so must often first be created.
Goal
The workshop enthuses the executive team for the IP topic. It is consensus that IP is of ever-increasing importance and must actively be governed by the top management. Executives are aware of the different aspects of an IP strategy.
Measures
One-day workshop
Goal
The workshop enthuses the middle management for the IP topic. It is consensus that IP is of ever-increasing importance and must actively be governed by the middle management. Executives are aware of the different aspects of an IP strategy.
Measures
One-day workshop
Goal
The event enthuses all employees for the IP topic. It is consensus that IP is of ever-increasing importance and employees are committed to contribute within their domain. Employees understand the impact that the new IP strategy will have on their work.
Measures
Event
Understand
Without fuel you do not take off. Only a precise analysis of the status quo allows to pinpoint future targets. iπ consulting conducts a thorough IP due diligence. The results serve as input for a new IP strategy.
Goal
The analysis depicts how IP is treated in-house. A consolidated review contains all relevant aspects: Internal IP processes, the internal IP organization, the own IP portfolio and IP monetization. Strengths and weaknesses of the present practice are pointed out clearly.
Measures
Interviews, analysis, presentation
Goal
The analysis depicts the external IP landscape. A consolidated review contains all relevant aspects: Clients, competitors and their IP strategy, industry benchmarks, best practices and a technology radar. Risks and opportunities within this landscape are pointed out clearly.
Measures
Interviews, analysis, expert discussion
Goal
The analysis depicts gateways in the firewall built out of industrial property rights. The analysis shows how competitors can work around existing patents. Suitable measures are presented that close the gaps.
Measures
Analysis, concept
Goal
The analysis depicts the IP portfolio. Results are available on aggregate (IP landscape) and individual (single right) level. The portfolio is evaluated from a legal, technical and monetary stance. Measures for restructuring the portfolio are recommended.
Measures
Interviews, analysis, valuation
Envision
The IP strategy, which is sufficiently precise, determines the destination. iπ consulting systematically develops a suitable strategy. Apart from a vision, the strategy contains specific milestones and measures. It serves as a compass needle in the choppy sea of a strategy project.
Goal
An IP vision is formulated and communicated within the company. It is supported by decision makers. The vision helps to maintain and develop the business. It considers the unique corporate culture. The vision serves as a guideline for the strategy whereas the latter has a higher degree of granularity.
Measures
Workshop, concept, communication
Goal
An IP strategy is formulated and communicated within the company. It specifies the vision on the functional level. Measurable goals and appropriate steps to accomplish them are put in place. The leverage effect of the strategy is visible in the business results.
Measures
Workshop, concept, communication
Goal
IP-related business opportunities beyond the core competencies are exploited. Utilizing IP in an innovative way is a new business area. Like other products, IP is regarded as a tradable asset.
Measures
Workshop, concept, communication
Implement
Waffling is not our business. iπ consulting puts strategy into practice. Abstract concepts turn into real projects. Responsibilities are assigned and professionals are trained accordingly. That is how strategy becomes part of daily working routine.
Goal
IP processes reflect the IP strategy. Processes are designed efficiently and focus on goals. Employees in charge have internalized the different process steps. A comprehensible documentation outlines the processes that have been defined.
Measures
Concept, manual, test run
Goal
Organization reflects the IP strategy. IP-related responsibilities are clearly defined within the organigram. A central or decentral organizational structure is chosen for IP-related tasks which might even be outsourced. The organizational structure is aligned with company culture. Qualified candidates are staffed on the right positions.
Measures
Concept, organigram, recruiting
Goal
The IP portfolio reflects the IP strategy. New patents have been created by means of patent design – a guided search for suitable ideas. Other property rights like trademarks and designs flank the new patents. Ineffective or worthless rights are removed from the portfolio.
Measures
Workshop, concept, application
Goal
Monetization of the IP portfolio reflects the IP strategy. Patents are monetized as part of a product or process, by patent assignment, (cross-)licensing, legal enforcement or are used as collateral. Property rights are no longer seen as mere defense instruments but rather as tradable assets.
Measures
Workshop, concept, monetization
Score
A strategy must be lived. This sounds hackneyed? It is nonetheless true.
iπ consulting stays on task after the implementation phase. An IP culture can only be established if employees understand and internalize it. A predefined culture must be revised on a regular basis. Skill comes with practice.
Goal
Execution and success of the IP strategy are revised internally on a regular basis. Appropriate key performance indicators (KPI) are defined. Relevant data is collected systematically and is readily available. Decision makers are equipped with an instructive periodic report
Measures
Concept, data gathering, exemplary report
Goal
Execution and success of the IP strategy are revised by external experts on a regular basis. Auditors contribute with their expertise from different companies and benchmark against best practice. Acting as a neutral entity, the auditor testifies the success as an IP-driven company.
Measures
Audit, benchmarking, presentation
Goal
Monitoring the external IP landscape is an integral part of competitive intelligence. Infringements are recognized promptly and trigger a swift reaction. Own infringements are avoided. Insights into technology trends, competitors and new market players are gained early on.
Measures
External report, alternatively: buildup of internal know-how