Suggested Reading
Many experts have developed books, magazines, and websites to offer their experience and know-how in the invention, patent, and licensing processes.
Books
The Innovator’s Dilemma
Christensen, Clayton. The Innovator’s Dilemma. Boston: Harvard Business School Press, 1997.
Abstract
The Innovator’s Dilemma presents the argument of sustaining versus disruptive technologies. Clayton suggests that companies are failing because they listen to their customer’s demands, invest aggressively in new technologies, and allocate investment capital that promises the best return. The argument in this book contends that companies should gain market dominance by proactively developing disruptive technologies that will meet future needs, rather than reacting to what customers say they want.
The Inventor’s Bible
Docie, Ron Louis Sr. The Inventor’s Bible: How to Market and License Your Brilliant Ideas. Berkeley: Ten Speed Press. 2001
Abstract
The Inventor’s Bible is a comprehensive resource for any inventor who considers developing an idea or pursuing a patent. Docie helps the layman understand the complicated technical and legal requirements involved in marketing and licensing ideas. This book is a practical step-by-step guide for any inventor.
Patent Law for the Nonlawyer
Burton A. Amernick: Patent Law for the Nonlawyer: A Guide for the Engineer, Technologist, and Manager. Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1986.
Abstract
Patent Law for the Nonlawyer is written specifically for engineers and other technical personnel who are involved in developing and using technology commercially. Amernick explains the underlying reasons and philosophy for having a patent system. He details:
- What constitutes patentable inventions in the US
- What must be included in a patent application and why
- How a patent is processed
- The criteria for “inventorship”
- The major provisions of international patent treaties
- Other general topics of interest to inventors
Patents and How To Get One
U.S. Department of Commerce. Patents and How To Get One: A Practical Handbook. Mineola: Dover Publications. 2000.
Abstract
Patents and How To Get One is a useful handbook that answers many of the frequently asked questions of potential patent holders and presents the fundamentals of the patent process. The language is clear and accessible to any reader.
Think Out of the Box
Vance, Mike; Deacon, Diane: Think Out of the Box. Career Press, 1986.
Abstract
Mike Vance is the first dean of Disney University and co-author Diane Deacon is the president of the Creative Thinking Association of America. Together, they present a number of innovative concepts and techniques that have been adapted by the likes of Apple, GE, AT&T, and J&J.
Articles
Christensen C. "Will Disruptive Innovations Cure Health Care?" Harvard Business Review. September-October. 2000: 102-112.
Christensen C, Johnson MW, Rigby DK. "Foundations for Growth: How to Build Disruptive Growth Businesses." MIT Sloan Management Review. Spring 2002, Volume 43, Number 3.
Christensen C, Raynor M, Verlinden M. "Skate to Where the Money Will Be." Harvard Business Review. November. 2001.
Periodicals
Fast Company
Fast Company considers itself the handbook of the business revolution. It offers ideas, tools, profiles, and evaluations on the new ways business works. Additionally, it chronicles the ways in which businesses compete in a growing global market and showcases individual and company business leaders.
Harvard Business Review
The Harvard Business Review is considered a leading authority on business leadership for managers responsible for success in the global economy. HBR shows how to use technology for competitive advantage, guides strategic decision making in times of change, profiles innovative leaders, and shares the details of successful online alliances.
Inventor's Digest
Inventor’s Digest features articles on prototyping, patenting, and marketing new inventions. A special section entitled "Invention Mart" offers a place to advertise your invention to new-product scouts.
Scientific American
Scientific American is designed for technically educated professionals and managers who have a positive predisposition to get involved with a broad range of the physical and social sciences. Its articles and features anticipate what the breakthroughs and the news will be in a society increasingly dependent upon scientific and technological advances.
Ties Magazine
Ties Magazine is an online publications that supports technology education and the integration of math, science, and technology in schools’ curricula. Ties Magazine emphasizes design and problem solving as an instructional technique.
Listing of books, articles, and periodicals is meant to provide resources to the user and does not imply endorsement of these publications by Codman.
