What are the key stages in protecting and commercialising my invention?

In order to successfully protect and commercialise a University invention you should contact the appropriate staff in your organisation to get advice and assistance to:
  1. Identify the actual invention. What have you created that is novel or inventive?
  2. Work out who the inventors are
  3. Identify any other interested parties (sponsors, employers, etc) who might own or have rights to the invention
  4. Agree on the most appropriate way of protecting the IP
  5. Find appropriate commercial partners to help develop and produce the invention
  6. Negotiate a commercial agreement, such as a licence or option agreement
  7. Monitor and manage the on-going commercial relationship.