Star Wars and IP Strategy


“In my experience, there’s no such thing as luck” (Obi-Wan Kenobi, Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope), but there is such thing as a strong intellectual property strategy. The Star Wars franchise is a prime example of what a strong intellectual property strategy can do for a brand.

They have developed a diverse portfolio over the years, leveraging their trademarks, patents, and copyrights for additional revenue in licensing. While the Star Wars franchise is recognized for their unique novel designs, catch-phrases, or iconic branding – the creativity and innovation to bring the story to life has created novel methods for production as well.

The Star Wars saga is filled with futuristic technology whose written mechanical systems are inspired by mechanical engineering, physics, and space to name a few. It is one of those brands that pushes innovation in technology forward. The brands current owners, Disney Enterprises, has taken the concept of light sabers and brought them to life (or as close as you can safely get) with Patent 9,843,744 Audience interaction projection system”. This novel idea is one of many methods this franchise has created out of bringing the universe to life.

A strong IP strategy focused on portfolio development, as exemplified by the Star Wars franchise, is essential to any brand.

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