First step for a public research institution in deciding on taking over an invention - done by one of its researchers - is to analyze the patent possibilities along with the actual commercial potentials of the invention.

The inventors' own knowlege of the technology and market in question is often of great value.

Furthermore inventors can find substantial information in patent databases and information portals. They provide a broad overview of the patent active companies within an area.

The research institutions often involve external consultants - primary patent agencies.

Consultants with a specific knowledge of the technology and/or market can also be involved.

Potential licensees, partners and investors can aswell - after signing a confidentiality agreement - be of great use in the evaluation of the technology.

Should the research institution decide not to take over the invention, the institutions' techtrans office will usually provide the researcher with advice to some extend.

Patent application, example