December 12, 2007
An SIIA Webcast

Moderator:
David G. Luettgen, Partner, Foley & Lardner LLP
Speakers:
Carl A. Kukkonen III, Partner, Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky and Popeo, P.C.
W. Keith Robinson, Associate, Foley & Lardner LLP

For software companies, the threat of intellectual property litigation has been increasing for years. Patents are issuing that cover processes developed years ago. To make matters worse, the fact that the infringement was innocent is no excuse.

What steps can a software company take to reduce or minimize the chances that it will be the next company sued? This session will examine practical steps that a software company can take to reduce its risk of getting sued by others for intellectual property infringement.

Topics covered will include:

• Conducting freedom to operate patent searches (e.g., conduct new product clearances, conduct searches of patents owned by competitors, review new competitor patents as they issue, etc.)
• Conducting due diligence before investing in third party technologies or companies
• Putting in place effective programs for tracking, following, and complying with non-disclosure agreements
• Identifying and monitoring IP litigation within the industry to identify litigious players
• Conducting periodic assessments competitor IP.