Registered Designs
Whether your business model is to innovate or imitate, you spend a lot of time and money making your product visually appealing to your customers.
For innovators, the competitive advantage design registration brings can be central to a successful product.
You may be surprised to know that generally speaking, manufactured products are not protected by copyright in Australia. Generally, the appearance of a product can be copied unless it is protected by a design registration.
A design registration protects the visual appearance of a product. It is inexpensive, straightforward, and should be considered for any new product. It is very important to file your application before you disclose the design to anyone.
Considering design registration is also important for imitators. If your business model is to imitate what has been successful elsewhere, you should consider whether each new product you intend to add to your range is covered by a design registration. This reduces the risk of being sued for infringement, and the prospect of having to destroy stock and being unable to fill orders.
Assessing whether you have freedom to operate before you launch a new product is important to innovators, and essential for imitators.
Speak to WADESON about how we can make assessing your freedom to operate and applying for design registration an easy streamlined process for your business.