Navigating the Protection and Commercialization of Intellectual Property: Uncharted Territory for Accounting Researchers

SYNOPSIS The emerging popularity of design science research and research areas such as data analytics, process automation, artificial intelligence, and distributed ledger technologies is poised to generate intellectual property (IP) in accounting research. This paper offers accounting researchers a practical guide for protecting and commercializing such emerging IP. We examine the legal and commercial implications of research decisions and review general legal principles, including university policies and employment agreements, that affect ownership rights. This paper also details patentability requirements in the U.S. and internationally and provides an overview of technology transfer offices and interinstitutional agreements in the U.S. Finally, we discuss available training and funding opportunities to support successful commercialization efforts. JEL Classifications: I23; J33; J41; M40; O31; O32; O34.