Best IP tools to help inventors
Inventors can do a lot themselves without engaging patent attorneys. Here is a summary of the most useful tools available:
| Software | Description |
|---|---|
| S&Z NDA Direct | Free extremely customisable confidentiality agreement template. |
| GlobalIPCo Provisional patent filing system | The best and most affordable way to file a South African provisional patent. |
| S&Z Patent Direct | The easiest and most affordable way to file South African national phase patents. |
| S&Z Licence Direct | Free comprehensive customisable licence agreement template. |
| Iptica Patent Pending Number | Great to get a Patent Pending Number and tips for software, board games, food and clothing inventions. |
| IdeaNav Renewal system | Lowest-price renewals for African patents and trademarks. |
| Iptica Register Trademark | Low-cost South African trademark filing system. |
| GlobalIPCo Design filing | Low-cost system for filing South African designs. |
| S&Z TM Direct | A trademark filing system specifically tailored for South African law and accounting firms. |
| GlobalIPCo Filings | Simple, online system to file: – South African patents, designs, trademarks; – Nigerian patents; – Nigerian and OAPI trademarks; – EU designs; – German utility models; and – Luxembourg short-term patents. |
| SimTM Trademark watching | Free South African trademark watching / monitoring service linked to trademarks on the PayAnnuity renewal system. |
Work with us to develop systems
We (S&Z, GlobalIPCo, Iptica, SimTM, IdeaNav and PayAnnuity) collaborate to develop systems (focussed on Africa) and are always open to working with other firms and tech companies.