By Christopher P. Singer —

Patent Docs was given the opportunity to review a recently-published
book by patent attorney M. Henry Heines, Ph.D., titled "Patents for
Business: The Manager’s Guide to Scope, Strategy, and Due Diligence"
(Praeger Publishers, Westport, CT (2007)).  In his text, Dr. Heines provides an easy-to-read overview of

intellectual property issues that are most likely to come up in corporate
situations.  Dr. Heines writes in a clear
and concise style and touches on topics including due diligence, patentable
subject matter (including the basic requirements of 35 U.S.C. §§ 102 and 103),
claim scope and strategy, freedom to operate, and patent portfolio management
and filing strategies.

As the title suggests, this book is geared toward
business professionals who have (or may have) dealings with patent-related
issues.  As such, Dr. Heines avoids
excessive patent attorney jargon (he provides a glossary for essential
terminology) and distills important aspects of patent law for the non-patent
practitioner.  This book would be a great
help to any person who lacks an understanding of patents, the role they play in
an overall business strategy, and what to expect when developing and managing a
patent portfolio.  While a seasoned patent attorney may find the discussion too
general, I would guess that every patent attorney has dealings with people that
would enjoy, appreciate, and benefit from Dr. Heines’ book.

"Patents for Business: The Manager’s Guide to Scope,
Strategy, and Due Diligence"
is listed on amazon.com for $54.95.