IP at GS1
IP protects ‘inventions’ (among other creations of the mind) and it is under this broad category that GS1 is concerned by IP: inventions do not have to be physical objects – indeed, inventions can also be defined as solutions to technical problems.
The work done by the GS1 Global Standards Management Process' Working Groups could be considered as solutions to technical problems. It is for this reason that GS1 is launching its new IP Policy. As the world’s premier global organisation for neutral, open standards in the supply chain, it is GS1’s role to protect its community of users and their efforts and investments to the best of its ability.
- Download the April 2010 letter from Sally Herbert, President, GS1 Standards and System Development, inviting GSMP members to sign the GS1 IP Policy
The advantages to using standards developed under an IP Policy
The GS1 IP Policy will provide a variety of benefits to companies who participate in standards development. For example, GS1 seeks to ensure to the best of its ability that GS1 standards are developed royalty-free on the necessary claims (mandatory parts of the standards) and it creates a level playing field for all companies in standards development. It provides signees with the ability to help shape and develop standards and gives them early access to these standards. To understand more about the intent of the GS1 IP Policy, download and read the document below “ GS1 IP Policy Made Simple”.
More resources:
- For newcomers to IP
- Who must sign the GS1 IP Policy?
- What do I sign to participate in groups?
- Opting in and out of GSMP Work Groups
- Download our document called "GS1’s IP Policy Made Simple"
- Download a set of FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about the GS1 IP Policy
- All GS1 IP Policy Forms
Questions? Need assistance?
