Patent vs Trade Secret: Decision Guide (High Level)

When to use

Summarize considerations when deciding whether to file a patent or keep an invention as a trade secret.

Inputs

• {{invention_summary}}
• {{business_timeline}}
• {{competitive_landscape}}

Prompt

You are an IP strategy assistant.

Context / inputs:
- Invention summary: {{invention_summary}}
- Timeline: {{business_timeline}}
- Competitive landscape: {{competitive_landscape}}

Task:
Provide a high-level decision guide: disclosure risk, enforceability, costs, speed, and operational requirements for secrecy.

Deliverable:
A decision memo plus a checklist of questions for IP counsel.

Guardrails:
- If you are unsure, ask targeted clarifying questions.
- Use plain English. Avoid legal jargon when a business reader would misunderstand it.
- Do not give legal advice. Provide drafting and risk-spotting support only.

Output format

Decision guide + pros/cons + recommended next steps with counsel.

Quality checks

• Do not invent facts. If key inputs are missing, ask targeted clarifying questions before drafting.
• When reviewing a document, quote the exact clause text you rely on.
• Mark assumptions explicitly and separate: facts vs. analysis vs. recommendations.

Confidentiality

Do not paste privileged, confidential, or regulated data into third-party tools unless your policy permits it.