An IP strategy that works for an early-stage company rarely works for a growing or mature organization. Yet many businesses fail to evolve their IP approach as they scale—resulting in misaligned portfolios, rising costs, and limited business impact.

A scalable IP strategy is not defined by volume. It is defined by impact.

Introducing the Impact Quotient

As organizations grow, the critical question shifts from “Should we file?” to “Does this IP matter?”

The Impact Quotient is a practical lens to evaluate whether an IP asset:

• Supports long-term business vision

• Strengthens competitive differentiation

• Protects or enables revenue

• Reduces market and operational risk

• Creates future strategic optionality

IP that scores high on impact deserves investment. IP that does not should be questioned—regardless of technical merit.

Early Stage: Focus on High-Impact Foundations

At early stages, resources are limited. The priority should be:

• Protecting core innovations with high impact potential

• Avoiding scattered or defensive filings with unclear value

• Preserving flexibility as products and markets evolve

Here, the Impact Quotient helps founders focus on what truly matters, not what is easy to patent.

Growth Stage: Managing Risk and Differentiation

As products scale and markets expand, IP strategy must:

• Align tightly with the product and technology roadmap

• Support geographic and market expansion

• Address Freedom to Operate risks early

• Strengthen defensibility against competitors

At this stage, the Impact Quotient helps balance speed, risk, and investment

Mature Stage: Optimizing for Value Extraction

For mature organizations, the Impact Quotient shifts toward:

• Portfolio optimization and pruning

• Licensing and monetization opportunities

• Supporting partnerships, M&A, and negotiations

IP becomes a measurable business asset—not just protection.

What Makes IP Strategy Truly Scalable

• Periodic portfolio reviews using impact-based criteria

• Cross-functional ownership beyond legal teams

• Metrics tied to business outcomes, not filing counts

Novaro IP’s Perspective

At Novaro IP, we apply the Impact Quotient to design IP strategies that evolve with the business. Our approach ensures that every IP decision—at every stage—contributes meaningfully to growth, competitiveness, and long-term enterprise value.

* Making IP concepts accessible and relevant for non-IP professionals.