Download This PaperSmes and Their Use of Intellectual Property Rights in Australia
Melbourne Institute Working Paper No. 17/04
29 Pages Posted: 3 Dec 2004 Last revised: 10 Apr 2011
Date Written: August 1, 2004
Abstract
There is a common, largely anecdotally-based belief that registered intellectual property is a less efficient form of protection for SME inventors compared with inventors from large firms. This paper discusses the reasons why SMEs may be disadvantaged in their use of intellectual property as opposed to more general disadvantages they may incur over the whole course of innovation. We estimate patent and trade mark rates per employee in Australia but do not find a significant difference between the large firm and SME sectors once industry effects are taken into account.
Keywords: Intellectual property rights, innovation, SMEs
JEL Classification: O31, O32, O34
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation
Paul H. Jensen (Contact Author)
University of Melbourne - Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research ( email )
Level 5, FBE Building, 111 Barry Street
Parkville, Victoria 3010
Australia
Elizabeth M. Webster
University of Melbourne - Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research ( email )
Level 5, FBE Building, 111 Barry Street
Parkville, Victoria 3010
Australia