Case Studies - Learning from local companies

Getting The Picture Right

Supreme Imaging Pte Ltd

Since 1989, Supreme Imaging Pte Ltd has been in the electro-photographic industry specialising in the supply of toner and its related consumable parts for laser printers, photocopiers and plain paper facsimiles. The company is actively involved in the research and development of new toner formulations including fundamental research of the physical properties and chemical structures of the new toner to manufacturing processes; and from machinery design to the related computer hardware and software. A wealth of IP exists in the company, and this has been recognised by the company management.

Supreme Imaging, like many other companies, sought first to have their operation infrastructure in place as a priority, but have now recognised the need to put IP as a priority. Mr James Chen, its managing director noted, "To the start-ups, seeking protection for IP is viewed as a cost and not immediately contributing to the bottom-line. However, there will come a time when the realisation sets in that IP issues would have to be given attention to as a business strategy when we have stayed on top of practical matters." Supreme Imaging has decided for now as part of its IP strategy to keep the formulation of new toners as undisclosed confidential information rather than seeking patent protection.

Its managing director Mr James Chen opined, "There is just so much IP to be uncovered in what we are doing, be it patents relating to our technology in the area of physics, chemistry, mechanical engineering and processes, or designs in our imaging machine products.   Our new plant at 60, Benoi Road is being constructed and will be in operation by July 2004. While our business expands, we are also broadening our bandwidth to look into IP issues and develop IP capabilities by the year 2005."

Mr Chen himself is an example of one who has grown in the field progressing in 21 years through the rank and file from engineering to management. His understanding of the need to protect the company's IP assets comes from ground experience. Said Mr Chen, "With increased globalisation of our business, there's increased activity in sales and administration alongside with production. IP plays a key role in these developments. We have identified and are engaging external business consultants to put in place an IP management system and explore new markets and partnering opportunities among overseas OEMs."