Co-contributors : Zephyr Su, Marks & Clerk & HKPC

1. Be careful about what you share!

Share only what you need. Don’t share the most important parts of your idea with anyone who hasn't signed a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).

2. Do a prior art search to validate your idea

Spend time searching for related patents / prior art online to evaluate your idea's potential before investing heavily. Consult professionals for guidance and to assess your invention's value.

3. Who is the applicant?

Does your employment contract include IP clauses that state the company owning invention rights? If not, ensure that the inventors sign agreements to transfer those rights to the company before filing.

4. Document well

Keep detailed records of the invention process, including dates and experimental notes, to support your patent applications.

5. File your patent application early

File the application for a patent as early as possible, as NDAs may not fully prevent information leakage. Determine where you would like to file applications for patent protection, as there may be limits to expand coverage afterward.