Complementary Use of IP Landscape to Address Challenges in Intellectual Property Due Diligence in M&A

Abstract

This paper examines a complementary approach to addressing challenges in intellectual property due diligence (IPDD) in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) by utilizing IP landscape (IPL). In its narrower sense, IPL is a method that visualizes technology trends and competitive environments based on patent and market information. IPL is particularly effective in the preparatory phase of identifying and screening candidate companies and in the post-acquisition phase of leveraging IP assets. By integrating IPL into the IPDD process, it becomes possible to enhance analytical efficiency and accuracy, thereby facilitating the early evaluation of target companies and associated risks.