Search results
Can I patent my idea or invention?
You may be able to get a patent if your idea or invention meets the criteria for a patent - to qualify it must be new, inventive and industrially applicable
Advantages and disadvantages of getting a patent
Consider the benefits of patents, as well as possible difficulties patenting may cause, before taking your ideas public
Sales ledger
The basics of using a sales ledger to monitor the money coming into your business.
Purchase ledger
What to record in a purchase ledger to keep track of how much money you owe.
Wages book
The value of maintaining a wages book and how to manage it if you employ staff.
Digital financial records
Reasons for keeping computer-based financial records and how to choose bookkeeping and accounting software packages.
Record-keeping best practice
Good record keeping habits and the "four S" approach: system, separate, security, storage.
What should my record-keeping system include?
The legal requirements for a record-keeping system.
How to register a design
How to file a design registration application in the UK or in the EU, and where to get help with the process
Registered community designs
What is a registered community design, where does it apply and what rights does it give you in the EU
Search for registered designs
How to search for registered designs and check if you’re infringing intellectual property of others
Contractors and copyright
Best practice guidance to help you protect copyright in commissioned works and understand implied licences
Exploring your ideas
How to innovate and develop your business ideas
Strategy for research and development
How research and development should fit into your overall business plan
Generating ideas for new products and services
How to generate ideas for new products and services, and evaluate those that are worth investing in
Researching new product and service ideas
How to research your new product or service ideas to make sure they can succeed in the market and meet customer needs
Find manufacturers to build a prototype
Sources of information on product designers and manufacturers who can help you develop your invention
Support for product safety and testing
How to arrange product safety assessment, and where to find testing laboratories, services and product certification in the UK
Attract funding for your invention
Explore funding options for development of new products and ideas, including equity finance, government grants, loans, crowdfunding and more
The importance of protecting intellectual property
Understand the significance of intellectual property rights and why it is important to protect IP such as trade marks, patents, designs and copyright