The webinar, hosted by the European IP Helpdesk, will take place on 17 November 2026, from 11:30 to 13:00. Prior registration is required.
Software is present at every level of our lives, from our interactions with hardware to those with end users, and everything in between. At the same time, the nature of software raises numerous questions concerning its management, protection and exploitation. This is due to its application across different fields, its ability to operate globally, the rapid pace of its development, adaptation and modification, and its complex, composite nature.
As we live in an interconnected world, it is essential to manage software interfaces, take into account relevant formal and de facto standards, and ensure seamless interoperability.
The webinar will address specific issues related to software protection and exploitation, including the most appropriate forms of intellectual property protection for software (e.g. patents, database rights and others), as well as different models for using software development tools and the associated products and services (e.g. open-source licences and others).
The training is suitable for anyone involved in software development, use, acquisition or licensing, whether they represent SMEs, large companies or research organisations.
Following the webinar, participants will have gained a better understanding of:
- The intellectual property rights that can be applied to software;
- Appropriate strategies for software management and protection;
- The use of software tools, products and services.
The speaker will be Dr Eugene Sweeney, an expert with over 40 years of experience in research and intellectual property commercialisation and innovation management. Dr Sweeney is also the current CEO of Iambic Innovation, a company providing services in these fields.
The webinar programme will also include a Q&A session, giving participants the opportunity to ask the speaker questions.
Language: English.
Participation is free of charge, but prior registration is required.