Intellectual Property (IP) licensing is undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by technological advancements that promise greater efficiency, transparency, and accessibility. IMPAC3T-IP has examined these technological advancements, in part to shape the development of its upcoming toolbox – a set of resources and tools designed to help stakeholders navigate the expanding ecosystem of IP licensing solutions.
The evolution of IP licensing
Historically, IP licensing has been a complex and time-consuming process, often reliant on paper-based systems and manual workflows. As organisations, including academic institutions and businesses, look to optimise their licensing practices, a variety of technologies have emerged to streamline the process. The IMPAC3T-IP report ‘Analysis of technology trends’ highlights how these innovations are not only improving efficiency but also the ability to manage and disseminate IP assets more effectively.
A key trend in this space is the integration of AI-driven assistants, which are poised to transform user experiences by providing intuitive guidance, automating repetitive tasks, and offering real-time support. This has informed IMPAC3T-IP’s own development of an AI-powered assistant that will streamline access to relevant tools, platforms, and information, as part of the upcoming toolbox.
Key technological trends impacting IP licensing
IMPAC3T-IP’s report identifies several significant technological advancements that are influencing licensing practices:
- Federated Machine Learning (FML): A privacy-preserving method for training AI models across decentralised data sources.
- Blockchain & Smart Contracts: Blockchain technology can lead to secure, transparent IP transactions, while smart contracts automate agreements.
- Homomorphic encryption: A technique that allows for data analysis without exposing sensitive information, ensuring secure licensing agreements.
- Digital Twin of a Customer: This technology creates a virtual representation of a customer, allowing for better-targeted licensing opportunities and more personalised IP offerings.
- Reinforcement Learning: This machine-learning approach allows systems to learn optimal licensing strategies over time, improving decision-making and outcomes.
- AI TRiSM (Trust, Risk, and Security Management): AI-driven systems that manage risks, security, and trust in IP licensing, particularly in areas involving high-value or sensitive IP assets.
- Internal Developer Portals and GitOps: These tools enhance collaboration within organisations, allowing developers to more effectively manage and license IP assets related to software and digital products.
These technologies are making IP licensing faster, more secure, and more efficient, transforming how stakeholders interact and negotiate in the IP space.
Leveraging technological advancements
To help IP professionals navigate these emerging solutions, IMPAC3T-IP is developing a comprehensive toolbox. Designed for Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs), private licensing professionals, researchers, enterprises, and even policymakers, the toolbox will provide guidance on key licensing scenarios, including Classical Plus, Crisis, and Co-Creation.
A key feature of the toolbox will be an AI-powered chatbot, designed to provide on-demand assistance to IP professionals. The chatbot will help stakeholders identify existing software and platforms that can support licensing activities. Beyond the chatbot, the toolbox will include a range of resources, such as case studies, reports, and capacity-building tools. These components will support professionals at different points in the licensing process, helping them maximise impact.
As licensing continues to evolve, AI-driven tools like this chatbot, as well as other technological trends and developments, will play an increasingly important role in facilitating data-driven decision-making. By bridging knowledge gaps and reducing complexity, IMPAC3T-IP aims to equip licensing professionals with the resources they need to navigate the future of IP management effectively.
Download the full report to explore these technological trends and gain insights into how they can transform IP licensing strategies.