It's World IP Day – 10 insights from the world of patents
Drawing on Marco Coolen's (AOMB) practical experience, we take a look at the power and limitations of intellectual property.
Published on April 25, 2025
Bart, co-founder of Media52 and Professor of Journalism oversees IO+, events, and Laio. A journalist at heart, he keeps writing as many stories as possible.
At ioplus.nl, Marco Coolen, a Dutch and European patent attorney at AOMB, shares his practical knowledge through the series The World of Patents. It’s a must-read for entrepreneurs, researchers, and tech professionals who want to understand how IP works – and how it sometimes doesn’t.
To celebrate World IP Day, we’ve selected 10 diverse and relevant topics from Marco’s series. Each one includes a summary and a concrete tip.
1. When should you file a patent?
Timing is critical. A strong patent must be technically inventive and aligned with your business goals.
Takeaway: Start early. Filing after public disclosure is often too late.
2. The power of trade secrets (and when they’re better than a patent)
In some cases, keeping your innovation confidential may be more effective than disclosing it through a patent.
Takeaway: Consider trade secrets when your invention is hard to reverse engineer.
3. The patent dream vs. commercial reality
A patent is not a business plan. It won’t replace product-market fit or a clear strategy.
Takeaway: IP should support your business goals – not replace them.
4. Why a good idea alone isn't enough
A patentable idea must be technically substantiated – just being ‘clever’ is not enough.
Takeaway: Include a clear technical explanation. A strong patent always covers the how.
5. Patenting in a team – who is the inventor?
In collaborative innovation, clearly defining inventorship and ownership can prevent future disputes.
Takeaway: Agree on inventorship before you file.
6. The role of IP in collaboration agreements
When working with partners, clearly define who may patent what, and who owns the results.
Takeaway: Always include IP clauses in your collaboration agreement.
7. The patent as a defensive tool
You don’t always need to enforce a patent offensively. It can be a strategic safeguard.
Takeaway: Use patents to protect your freedom to operate.
8. When is a patent no longer worth it?
Not all patents remain valuable. Fast-moving markets or shifting priorities may render them obsolete.
Takeaway: 💸 Reassess the value of your IP portfolio regularly.
9. Exploring the patent landscape
Patent databases can help you avoid reinventing the wheel – and identify opportunities.
Takeaway: 🔍 A patent search can save time, money, and frustration.
10. IP as a valuation tool for investors
A solid IP strategy can significantly boost your company’s perceived value.
Takeaway: Treat IP as a business asset – it builds trust and credibility with investors.
Happy World IP Day!
Want to explore the full series? Check it out here: And remember: a strong IP strategy starts with the right questions, not just the right paperwork.