Licensing Negotiations

Start with the aims of a negotiation

Begin with the mind map that sets out what each party gives and receives, and whether both are content with the final deal. It also lists points such as the start date, duration, nature of the licensed intellectual property, work schedule and costs. Use these headings to make a short outline of the issues the map brings together.

Several maps cover the purpose of licensing negotiations. Compare their outlines to see how they present what each side wants from a proposed commercial arrangement.

Move on to the team and terms

Next, look at the mind map titled “Negotiation and Licensing” that discusses choosing a negotiation lead. It explains why negotiating alone can be unwise when points or issues are unclear or open to misinterpretation.

Another map discusses appointing a small team to address technology, manufacturing, legal, intellectual property and finance points as needed. A map on patent license negotiation includes preparation, valuation approaches, an initial team meeting and a term sheet. Compare these with the first map's account of the team's role.

Connect the maps

A further map brings together terms, royalties, minimum royalties and resetting minimum royalties. After studying it, return to the map on the parties' aims and consider how the terms relate to what each side gives and receives. The page also lists a flowchart for another way to look at the material.

There are no quizzes listed on this topic page, so use the maps together to check your understanding: cover a branch, recall its headings, then uncover it and compare. Within Commercial and company law, Licensing Negotiations is a section of the Technology Contracts, Transfer and Licensing unit. Choose a map and use its headings to build your own study outline.