Freedom to Operate (FTO) analysis

A freedom-to-operate analysis determines whether existing patents may restrict commercial use of your planned product or solution.

Before proceeding with a launch of a product, it’s important to ensure that you can enter the market without infringing on the patent rights of other companies. Conducting a Freedom to Operate (FTO) assessment may significantly reduce the risk of infringement.

The core of the FTO analysis service is defining the target – a clearly delineated product or process – and conducting a methodical and comprehensive patent search for said target. Our FTO searches are carried out either by one of our attorneys who specializes in database searches, or a partner company using the best tools available.

The earlier in your product development project you are aware of the potential patent rights of your competitors, the more cost-effectively you can modify your own plan if necessary – saving you time and effort! An FTO analysis also gives you an excellent overview of where your own IPR efforts are best focused.