Intellectual property is central to almost everything we do, as businesses or individuals. As a result, intellectual property rights are important assets to most modern businesses. 

Understanding how intellectual property can impact you and your business is vital, as it is the body of law which protects, amongst other things, brands, product designs and inventions. It also supports the global exchange of technology and ideas. 

For World IP Day, we have created a short series of accessible 'transatlantic top tips' animations, which provide guidance on some of the basics of intellectual property rights, including information from our UK and US lawyers. 

There is also a bonus instalment providing a short introduction to World IP Day, which includes a special feature in honour of this year's theme – Powering change: Women in innovation and creativity – which celebrates the contribution of women to the world of IP.  

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.