CambridgeIP

Case study 5

University Spin-off: Competitor Strategy Analysis using Patent-based Intelligence

A top UK University spin-out active in the Renewable Energy field approached us for an IP Landscape report. The client was backed by a major UK government funding organisation. The CEO of the company required deep intelligence about industry incumbents’ R&D strategy. The client also needed independent analysis of the industry’s patent landscape for use in technology licensing negotiations and structuring a strategic partnership.

Patent-based Competitor R&D Profile

We performed an IP Landscape report for two technology areas relevant to the client’s technology. The resulting patent-based intelligence was used in negotiations by our client. The client felt that the findings on competitors’ patenting activity helped secure a go-ahead for a joint venture with a major industry player: “The strategic partner’s reaction to the report’s findings was startling: immediately inviting us to their HQ to meet with their Head of Development to finalize an agreement towards jointly developing a product.” The report has also been used by the client when applying for participation in EU Framework 7 programs, by demonstrating the client’s deep knowledge of the industry’s patenting trends.

The example shows how patent data can be used to analyse the R&D strategy of competitors, and to develop licensing strategy. The findings suggest that Company 7 is aggressively expanding into the client’s field: it has the highest growth rate of patenting activity. In turn Company 2 is most dependent on this field for its strategic success: 100% of its patents are in the field of focus. Such strategic insights can help you structure your licensing negotiation strategy: who should you approach first, who need your technology most, which individuals are key experts.

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