Format Recognition and Protection Association promotes at MITPV a key document for the global market: the 10 steps to protect your format, including tips that will help content producers to safeguard their creations.
First, Write it:format ideas come from anywhere and everywhere, so when inspiration strikes, don’t just think about it, write it down. Second, Illustrate it: unique set designs, props or game elements to ramp up the drama and deliver a distinctive visual hook. Third, Sizzle it: create a sizzle reel to show how your format should look, feel and work.
Four, Name and Domain it: a strong working title can help grab attention and create intrigue even before anyone hears your pitch. Five, Register it: become a member of FRAPA, as they have access to a free, world-class consultancy service that provides professional help and guidance on all aspects of IP protection and infringement. Six, Keep a record of it: keep a running, ongoing log of all the activity generated by your format idea from inception through to every pitch, email and phone call you subsequently make.
Seven, Shop it: when you start pitching your format, request that any third-party signs a NDA before viewing your idea. Eight, Refresh it:a static format is a vulnerable format. Evolving your concept not only keeps it abreast of buyer and audience feedback, but it also keeps it fresh, relevant and, crucially, one step ahead of imitators. Nine, Social it: social media is no longer an optional extra for TV formats. At the pitching stage, buyers will want to know what hook they can use to promote your show across the social platforms. Ten, Manage it: keep your format bible as up-to-date, accurate and forensically detailed as possible.
