4 ESSENTIAL IP STEPS FOR SUCCESSFULLY LAUNCHING A PRODUCT OR SERVICE

Written by Prich Kasettham (Managing Partner of Viz (Thailand) Ltd. all right reserved 2025

Launching with Protection: 4 Key Intellectual Property Steps for Product and Service Success

In today’s competitive market, launching a product or service without considering intellectual property (IP) is like setting sail without a map. From my experience of over 15 years in the field of intellectual property, working closely with innovators, creators, and policy makers, I’ve seen firsthand how strategic IP management can be the difference between success and costly regret.

Whether you’re a startup, an SME, or a corporate innovator, these four essential IP steps can guide you in launching your product or service securely and strategically:

Step 1: Identify and Audit Your Intellectual Property Assets

Before any public launch, conduct an IP audit to identify what protectable elements exist in your product or service. These may include:

• Patents for new inventions or technical solutions

• Trademarks for your brand name, logo, or slogan

• Copyright for content, software code, design, or marketing materials

• Trade secrets for confidential processes, formulas, or customer databases

• Design rights for the visual appearance of a product

Early identification ensures you don’t overlook valuable intangible assets. It also helps in mapping out what protection is needed in each market.

Step 2: Secure Your IP Rights — Nationally and Internationally

Once assets are identified, the next step is filing for protection — ideally before going public.

• File patents early to prevent novelty loss.

• Register trademarks in all intended markets to avoid brand hijacking or domain squatting.

• Use the Hague System for industrial designs and the Madrid System for trademarks to streamline international registration.

• In jurisdictions where unregistered rights are limited, formal IP registration can give you the legal advantage in disputes.

Tip: Don’t forget to check freedom-to-operate (FTO) and conduct prior art or clearance searches to avoid infringing others’ rights.

Step 3: Integrate IP into Your Business and Marketing Strategy

IP should not sit in a legal silo. Integrate it into your broader business plan:

• Align IP filings with your product roadmap and go-to-market timeline.

• Use IP to attract investors, partners, or licensing opportunities.

• Consider co-branding or joint ventures with clearly defined IP ownership.

• Incorporate trademarks and design elements into your marketing and packaging from the outset.

This step ensures your IP strategy supports — rather than delays — your business growth.

Step 4: Monitor, Enforce, and Commercialize Your IP Post-Launch

Protection doesn’t end with registration. Post-launch, you must actively:

• Monitor for infringement online and offline.

• Enforce your rights through cease-and-desist letters, takedown procedures, or litigation if necessary.

• Commercialize your IP via licensing, franchising, or technology transfer.

• Renew or update your IP rights as products evolve.

Utilize tools such as WIPO’s Global Brand Database or PATENTSCOPE or IP Search of the DIP's Online Database to keep track of potential IP conflicts or market opportunities.

Conclusion: IP as a Growth Engine, Not Just Legal Shield

When thoughtfully integrated into the product lifecycle, IP is far more than legal protection — it becomes a business enabler. It can unlock markets, build consumer trust, and drive long-term value.

Start with protection in mind, not as an afterthought. In a world where ideas are currency, your IP strategy is your investment plan.

Let’s protect what sets you apart.

📞 Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

📧 Email: info@vbizthailand.com

🌐 Website: www.vbizthailand.com

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