Beginner Module
Intellectual Property: What You Own and Why It Matters
IP 101: Protect What You Create
If you don't protect your ideas, someone else will monetize them before you.
IP Types You Should Know
Copyright
Protects original works of authorship including books, music, images, films, and software code.
- • Automatic protection upon creation
- • Lasts for life + 70 years
- • Covers expression, not ideas
Trademark
Protects brand identifiers like logos, slogans, names, and distinctive sounds or colors.
- • Must be used in commerce
- • Can last forever with renewal
- • Prevents consumer confusion
Patent
Protects inventions, processes, and novel technical solutions for a limited time.
- • Must be novel and non-obvious
- • 20-year protection period
- • Requires public disclosure
Trade Secret
Protects confidential business information like internal methods, formulas, and processes.
- • Must be kept secret
- • No time limit if maintained
- • Example: Coca-Cola recipe
"Ideas aren't owned. Execution is."— Sphere IP Expert
What You'll Gain from This Module
Legal Foundation
Understand the legal framework that protects creative work globally
Protection Strategies
Learn practical steps to protect your intellectual property
Monetization Rights
Discover how to license and profit from your creative assets