In the ever-evolving world of retail, where technology and innovation are reshaping the industry, managing intellectual property has never been more important. Sri Atluri, Walmart’s Chief IP Counsel, knows this all too well.
With extensive experience in managing IP portfolios and enforcing patents, Atluri plays a pivotal role in reducing Walmart’s IP risks and protecting its valuable innovations. Before joining Walmart, she was involved in IP litigation and portfolio management, bringing over a decade of expertise in the technology and retail sectors.
In this episode of Clause 8 with host Eli Mazour, Sri emphasizes the critical balance between protecting innovations and fostering strategic growth within Walmart’s technological initiatives. She argues for the necessity of continual IP enforcement, detailing how both protection and litigation play essential roles in maintaining Walmart’s competitive advantage. Sri also discusses the evolving landscape of e-commerce and the challenges posed by Section 101 and patent eligibility.
Key Takeaways:
• Walmart’s approach to IP management is rooted in reducing risk and protecting innovation while aligning with strategic business goals.
• Building a patent portfolio isn’t about numbers; it’s about ensuring protection in strategic areas that align with Walmart’s mission and innovation trajectory.
• Enforcing patents is crucial for Walmart to protect its technological advancements and maintain a market edge.
• Comprehensive understanding and certainty in Section 101 patent eligibility are imperative for effective IP strategy.
• Collaboration and open communication between Walmart’s IP team and other corporate divisions ensure alignment and comprehensive IP protection.
Notable, Quotable:
On patent enforcement
• “If we’re not protecting the innovation that we are spending our money on developing, then we’re essentially donating our R&D dollars to our competitors.”
• “It is a hundred percent worth our time and money to enforce our patents. Um, when we see our technology being infringed, um, I think we have an obligation to protect it.“
On Section 101 and patent eligibility
• “In my mind, certainty is the best remedy… And that’s what I worry about, is that all of a sudden, you’re faced with an application or a granted patent where the disclosure includes patent eligible subject matter, but because of the way that you claimed it three years ago, it would no longer stand up in court.”
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