Unit 27: Intellectual Property Management in the Design and Creative Industries

Unit code: L/501/8391
QCF level: 4
Credit value: 7
Guided learning hours: 50

Unit aim

The aim of this unit is to ensure that learners are aware of, and understand, the importance of the protection of intellectual property, for themselves, their employer and their clients.

The unit aims to give learners knowledge that will be useful whether entering employment in the creative and media sector, or progressing to higher education.

Competency unit assessment guidance

This unit should be assessed predominantly in the workplace. Please see Annexe E. Observation, witness testimony, questioning, professional discussion, written and product evidence are all sources of evidence which can be used.

Unit introduction

The management of intellectual property in the design and creative industries falls into two main areas: the protection and use of intellectual property owned by oneself, one’s employer or clients; having respect for intellectual property created and owned by others, avoiding its use without permission, seeking permission for its use if necessary, and thus avoiding the risk, penalties and costs associated with prosecution as a result of intellectual property right infringement.

Within this unit, learners will develop an understanding of the legal issues in relation to intellectual property rights and their business. This will include analysing key aspects of UK and international intellectual property law.

Learners will develop an insight into how to manage intellectual property rights in their designs, learning what can be protected, and how best to acquire this protection. Learners will also be introduced to the revenue opportunities and risks associated with intellectual property rights.

The unit will also help learners to understand how they may be able to use intellectual property held by others, given permission, and reduce the chance of the learner infringing intellectual property rights held by others, which could have costly consequences. In addition, this unit will help learners to understand the commercial opportunities which could result from intellectual properties which they own or manage.

Learning outcomes and assessment criteria

In order to pass this unit, the evidence that the learner presents for assessment needs to demonstrate that they can meet all the learning outcomes for the unit. The assessment criteria determine the standard required to achieve the unit.

On completion of this unit a learner should: