Trademarks & Licensing
FAQs
Q. What is a Trademark?
A. A trademark is any word, phrase, symbol or design, which identifies and distinguishes the goods and/or services of one party from those of another. These marks should be used in a consistent manner that enhances the image of the University. Traditionally, trademarks only describe marks designating products or "goods" (as opposed to services). Increasingly, however, the word is used to describe any type of mark, not just traditional "trademarks." The use of a trademark is designated by a tm prior to obtaining a federal registration. When this mark becomes registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the designation changes from tm to ©.
Q. What is a Service Mark?
A. A service mark indicates that the source or origin of the mark is for services (as opposed to goods). For all practical purposes, service marks are subject to the same rules, use, protection, and infringement. The difference between a trademark and service mark depends on how the mark is being used. If the mark is used in conjunction with a particular product (e.g., a sweatshirt), it is a trademark. If, however, it is used in conjunction with a service (e.g., providing educational services), it is a service mark. The use of a service mark is designated by a SM prior to obtaining a federal registration. When this mark becomes registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the designation changes from SM to ©.
Q. What is a Copyright?
A. A copyright, is any original work of authorship fixed in any tangible medium or expression, now known or later developed, from which it can be perceived, reproduced, or otherwise communicated, either directly or with the aid of a machine or device. Works of authorship include the following categories: (1) literary works; (2) musical works, including any accompanying words; (3) dramatic works, including any accompanying music; (4) pantomines and choreographic works; (5) pictorial, graphic, and sculptural works; (6) motion pictures and other audio visual works; and (7) sound recordings. A copyright is designated by the symbol © and should be placed in such a manner as to give reasonable notice of the claim of copyright.
Q. What is a Trade Dress?
A. A Trade Dress is also a type of mark which refers to the overall image or impression of a product. It is represented by the product's "look" and "feel", and/or the way the product is packaged and presented to consumers. Generally, only those elements of a product that are nonfunctional (as opposed to functional elements, such as shrink-wrap, or a plain cardboard box) and inform consumers about a product's source, are considered part of product trade dress.
Q. What is Promotional Licensing?
A. Syracuse University enters into a number of royalty-bearing licensing agreements through which its indicia may be used in association with those of various companies and agencies for mutually beneficial programs. Promotional licensing is done on a one-time basis and in conjunction with our exclusive trademark licensing representative, The Collegiate Licensing Company. If you are interested in proposing a special promotion, please contact:
Q. What if my question was not answered here?
A. If you would like more information on Syracuse University's Licensing Program, please contact:
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