Suppose you run into a friend who has a new idea for a business or product every

Question

Suppose you run into a friend who has a new idea for a business or product every time you see him. This time, he is convinced he has invented a cutting-edge new management system called “Beverage-Based Management”, whereby employees improve their performance by drinking high-caffeine energy drinks with a shot of vodka during their lunch breaks. Your friend provides a pile of research studies showing that caffeine can increase alertness and productivity, while alcohol can reduce inhibitions and increase communication between employees. You are a bit skeptical of his idea, but think some companies might buy his system (at least for comedy purposes). Your friend wants to get a patent on “Beverage-Based Management.” Having read Bouchoux (2001) and Miller (2008), you know that in order to acquire a patent, the idea must be useful, original, and non-obvious. Do you think your friend’s idea meets any of these three criteria? If not, is there another form of intellectual property that you would recommend to your friend?

Explanation / Answer

The idea does not meet the criteria because although the idea is original and non-obvious, it is not useful. Almost all workplaces have strict rules about consumption of alcohol mainly because it can impair judgement and bring about unprofessional behaviour. Also, the intake of caffeine and alcohol simultaneously can have severe implications on a person's health. As this idea cannot be termed as useful, it cannot be classified under any intellectual property.

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