Trademark Development Policies
A trademark is a unique sign or symbol used to distinguish a good or service. Registered trademarks benefit their owner by helping consumers recognize a brand or service. A trademark development policy requires considerable time and research.
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Research
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A trademark development policy begins with research about the consumer targeted to use the product or service. A solid trademark identifies the good or service in a way that promotes consumer confidence and clearly identifies the brand. For example, a baked goods company may develop a trademark that consumers identify as a food product.
Design
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A registered trademark can be just about anything including letters, symbols, drawings, colors, shapes, packaging and even smells. But, a trademark must be distinctive and it cannot mislead consumers. A trademark development policy begins with a basic design. Complete a search of the national trademark to make sure the design is not too similar to an existing trademark.
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Registration
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When you determine the trademark is unique, complete the trademark design. To receive trademark protection, a trademark application is submitted through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The office will approve the application if the trademark is unique and acceptable under trademark laws.
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