Promote the Progress to focus on the core - Worldwide Intellectual Property Law and Policy

Last month I signaled that a change was coming to Promote the Progress.  In that post, I joked about an “all Led Zeppelin, all the time” format.  Turns out, I was somewhat serious…

I used my recent break from blogging to give serious thought to the purpose of the blog.  In the last month, I’ve made several decisions regarding its future direction.  The result…I’m narrowing the focus on a core strength…Intellectual Property Law and Policy.

Focusing on Core Strength

Most importantly, I defined the core strength of Promote the Progress as timely and meaningful information on intellectual property law and policy.  From here forward, the blog will focus on and expand this core strength.  I will no longer post on issues relating to other interests of mine (legal technology, for example).  I’ll very likely continue to write on these other topics, but will do so elsewhere.

So, what exactly do I mean by “intellectual property law and policy?”  The blog will focus on legislative and regulatory developments in intellectual property law.  I’ll also discuss news items that have a clear relation to policy.  I may review an occasional judicial development if I determine it has sufficient impact on policy, but otherwise will not post case reviews (to stay up to date on case law developments, I recommend my good friend Dennis Crouch’s excellent site, Patently-O).

No Reblogging

I’m proud of the fact that I don’t just cut and paste news stories on the blog.  There are plenty of other places to go if you just want the “news of the day” parroted back to you.

Going Global – Intellectual Property Law and Policy, Worldwide

I watch the traffic and listen to my readers, and have learned immensely from doing so.  Two things have come through loud and clear.  First, I’ve learned that US practitioners and business people have a very strong need and desire to learn about developments in intellectual property law around the world.  Second, I’ve learned that many people from other countries closely watch developments in US intellectual property law, including business people, practitioners, and policy makers.  The intellectual property universe is global and becoming more so every day.  The sophisticated practitioner and business person must stay abreast of issues worldwide.  Focusing on the core strength will allow me to deliver timely and meaningful information to this audience.

Design and Organization Changes to Come

I’ll change the organization and design of the blog to reflect this new focus and to enhance its usability.  I’m open to suggestions on layout and design, so feel free to e-mail any thoughts you have.

The Great Blog Adventure Continues

I’m having fun and enjoying this adventure immensely.  I thank all of my readers for their continued support and look forward to moving ahead.

Best regards,

J. Matthew Buchanan

[Copyright 2005 J. Matthew Buchanan. Originally published on Promote the Progress.]