Patente como recurso estratégico: um estudo de caso do Departamento de Química da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais

Abstract

Presents a case study of the Department of Chemistry (DQ) at the Institute of Mathematical Sciences (ICEx) at the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG). Aims to investigate the favorable and unfavorable factors, internal and external related to patent policy and its influence in the context of production and commercialization of inventions created in the DQ/UFMG. The implementation of policies for the protection of technological knowledge can be seen as a strategic positioning of institutions. In the case of Federal Institutions of Higher Education,licensing generate revenue, increase the investment capacity and greater social benefits than the mere dissemination of knowledge. There are different issues reported in the literature on intellectual property related to cultural, economic, political, administrative and legislative frameworks that have influence on the production of academic patents. It was the recognition of the importance of implementing appropriate policies on Intellectual Property and the use of sources of information technology as a strategic asset that motivated this study. The research is descriptiveand has a qualitative approach. Data for analysis were collected through interviews with researchers from the Department of Chemistry. The procedures for data collection were performed through the development of a structured interview. To facilitate the analysis was chosen strategic tool called a SWOT (strenghts, weaknesses, oportunities and Threats). Intellectual Property Policy UFMG is already consolidated and the Department of Chemistry is one of the most productive departments of the institution. Yet there are some administrative-bureaucratic bottlenecks to be overcome and it also requires an intensive policy of clarification thatwill help reduce the conservatism and cultural resistance still exists in the academic community. We must invest in distribution or marketing activities to encourage a culture of innovation in all areas of setting focus on potential inventors. The deployment set by administration of the UFMG/ICEx/DQ in relation to the Intellectual Property policy should be disclosed and explained its meaning for everyone in the institution, so it becomes a collective pattern of action. The Office of TechnologyTransfer and Innovation and Legal Department, UFMG also must be aligned with this placement to achieve the harmony and synergy necessary for the strategic objectives defined by all to be achieved. Awards and other incentives, such as reduced educational costs for inventors more active, are also important. Continue the process of consolidation of the Coordinator of Transfer and Innovation and increaseits service capacity to meet the demand of researchers from UFMG. One of the worst internal bottlenecks currently is occurring in the Legal Department of the UFMG. Stabilisation processes, professionalism, continuing education and enhancement of the management with the inclusion of positions are essential for effective interaction with business is done in a much more professional so that they are interested andare satisfied when they come up to negotiate or technologies patents produced in the university. Trends in patent policy point to the increase in patenting in the institution.