This thesis delves into the pivotal role of intellectual property (IP) management within medium-sized enterprises (MSEs), particularly in the context of an increasingly knowledge-driven global economy. As innovation becomes a key driver of competitive advantage, effective IP management emerges as a critical factor for ensuring long-term business sustainability and success. However, MSEs often encounter distinct challenges in this area, largely due to their constrained resources and the prevalence of organizational silos that inhibit the seamless integration of IP into broader business strategies.

The research undertakes a comprehensive analysis of existing standards, specifically DIN 77006 and ISO 56005, to identify the specific IP needs of various roles within MSEs. These standards, which provide structured methodologies for integrating IP into corporate and innovation strategies, serve as the foundation for the development of a tailored framework designed to address the unique challenges faced by MSEs. The proposed framework emphasizes the importance of redefining IP management from a traditionally reactive and support-oriented function to a proactive, strategic core function that is fully integrated into the business development processes of the company.

By positioning IP management at the heart of business strategy, the framework enables MSEs to leverage their intellectual assets more effectively, ensuring that these assets are not only protected but also actively utilized to create and sustain competitive advantages. The research highlights the critical role of cross-functional collaboration, where departments such as R&D, legal, marketing, and business development work in concert to align IP activities with the company’s overall strategic goals. This integrated approach facilitates a more coherent and cohesive strategy that enhances innovation, improves market positioning, and drives business growth.

The thesis also underscores the importance of strategic alignment and data-driven decision-making in IP management. By integrating IP considerations into the broader strategic framework of the company, MSEs can ensure that their IP strategies are not developed in isolation but are instead interwoven with other key business strategies such as market expansion, product development, and technological innovation. The use of data analytics is emphasized as a tool for informing strategic decisions, assessing competitive landscapes, and optimizing the return on IP investments. This approach not only reduces the risks associated with IP management but also enhances the company’s ability to capitalize on emerging market opportunities and technological trends.

In addition to strategic alignment, the research outlines a comprehensive change management framework essential for embedding the new IP management practices within the organization. The framework is built around four key levers: role modeling, understanding and conviction, talent and skills development, and the implementation of formal mechanisms. These levers are designed to ensure that the changes are deeply rooted in the organization’s culture and are sustained over the long term. Leadership commitment is highlighted as a critical factor in driving the change, with top management playing a crucial role in modeling desired behaviors, setting clear expectations, and ensuring that IP management is integrated into the company’s strategic vision.

The thesis further explores the department-specific benefits of a centralized and integrated IP strategy. By centralizing IP management, MSEs can enhance the effectiveness of each department, from R&D and marketing to legal and finance, ensuring that IP considerations are consistently applied across the organization. This centralization not only improves efficiency and reduces duplication of efforts but also strengthens the company’s overall IP portfolio, enhancing its ability to protect innovations, enforce IP rights, and leverage IP for strategic advantage.

Ultimately, the thesis concludes that the successful adoption of this integrated IP management framework will empower medium-sized enterprises to navigate the complexities of the modern business environment with greater agility and confidence. As the global economy continues to evolve, with knowledge and intellectual assets playing an increasingly critical role, MSEs that embrace this approach will be better positioned to protect their innovations, exploit new opportunities, and achieve sustained competitive success. The research suggests that this integrated framework is not merely a tactical enhancement but a strategic imperative that can transform how MSEs approach innovation, competition, and growth in the 21st century. The thesis provides a roadmap for MSEs to move beyond traditional IP management practices and towards a more strategic, integrated, and value-oriented approach, ensuring their long-term viability and success in an ever-changing global market.

This research project was conducted by MIPLM graduate Dominique Christ and supervised by Prof. Dr. Alexander Wurzer and Dr. Thibaud Lelong both CEIPI.

Dr. Dominique Christ is the Managing Director of Dennemeyer IP Consulting GmbH, where he is responsible for the strategic direction and management of Dennemeyer’s global consulting services. With a background in law and business, Dr. Christ brings a unique perspective to the field of intellectual property management. Prior to joining Dennemeyer, Dr. Christ worked as a senior management consultant at McKinsey & Company, advising national and international clients on digital transformations and innovation in various sectors. His international experience includes living and working in Canada, Chile, and South Africa. Dr. Christ holds a Ph.D. in Law, focusing on company and capital markets law, as well as an MBA from the University of Dayton. He is fluent in English, German, and Spanish and has been active in the IP field since 2019. His areas of expertise include chemistry and engineering.

He serves as Chairman of the IP Strategy Committee of the International Institute for IP Management. As a thought leader in the IP industry, Dr. Christ is committed to helping organizations leverage their intellectual property assets to drive growth and maintain a competitive edge in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.

Here is a presentation of the research project by Dominique Christ: