We discuss the software patent should be granted or not. There exist two types of coping in the software market; reverse engineering and software duplication. Software patent can prevent both types of copies since a patent protects an idea. If the software is not protected by a patent, software...

Copyright violations are subject to both civil and criminal sanctions, but criminal charges are relatively rare. Using a theoretical model, this study compares the implications of civil and criminal penalty schemes from the viewpoint of social welfare, where civil and criminal schemes are...

In Europe and in Japan, patent applications are publicly disclosed after 18 months from the filing date regardless of whether a patent has been or will be registered. In the U.S. in contrast, patent applications are publicly disclosed only when a patent is granted. In this paper we examine the...

We consider a multi-stage game where firms first choose product quality and then compete for sales in the product market. We show how the equilibrium qualities depend on the timing of quality choices and on the form of competition at the sale stages. If the product market is characterized by...

The use of inter-laboratory test comparisons to determine the performance of individual laboratories for specific tests (or for calibration) [ISO/IEC Guide 43-1, 1997. Proficiency testing by interlaboratory comparisons -- Part I: Development and operation of proficiency testing schemes] is...

We present a framework to examine how a standard evolves when a standard consortium or firm (incumbent) innovates either to improve the standard or to strengthen the installed base which increases switching cost. By investing also in technology improvement, both investments make it more...

Strategic technology standardization and management of related intellectual property have become a worldwide phenomenon. Japan is no exception as stressed in policy documents such as the "Industrial Structure Vision 2010" and the "Intellectual Property Promotion Plan 2011". In the first part of...