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University of Tennessee Research Foundation

Technology Transfer & Licensing

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UTRF Evaluation Criteria

Technical Merit

  • What data is there on the invention?
  • Is there a prototype?
  • Is the invention in a “Hot” area?
  • Is this a core or platform technology, or is it an incremental advance?
  • Protectability

  • Prior public disclosure?
  • Extent of prior art?
  • Could infringement be detected?
  • Would there be freedom to operate?
  • How broad could a patent be?
  • Commercial Potential

  • Is there a clear product?
  • Does it solve a significant problem?
  • Will the customer pay for it?
  • What is the market size?
  • What are competitive products?
  • Who are likely licensees?
  • What are legal and regulatory barriers?
  • Inventor

  • What industry relationships does the inventor have?
  • What is the funding status for further research on the invention?
  • Has UTRF worked with the inventor before? If so, what was the outcome?
  • What does the inventor want?
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