The topic for discussion this week is the "genericization" -- the process of becoming generic -- of a trade name or trademark through common usage and its implications for an entrepreneur. Trade names are discussed briefly in both Chap 16 (under Risk to Intangible Property) and Chap 17. You should read that material before doing this assignment. Note the difference between a trade name and a trademark. Businesses fight infringement all the time - sometimes winning and sometimes not. Another potential problem is the "genericization" of a trade name or trademark through common usage. 1. Do an Internet search for "generic trade names." Some "borderline" ones include Mary Janes, Loafers, Ouija board, Peg-Board, Tabasco Sauce, Mini-bar, Skivvies, Sheetrock, Rollerblades, Windbreakers, Seeing-Eye dogs, Dumpsters, and Dobros. What is the REAL generic name for these products? 2. Former brand names that lost their protected status include pogo stick, heroin, cellophane, dry ice, leatherette, jungle gym, zipper, escalator, trampoline, nylon, kerosene, thermos, and shredded wheat. What implications do this loss of trade name or trademark protection have for an entrepreneur? The topic for discussion this week is the "genericization" -- the process of becoming generic -- of a trade name or trademark through common usage and its implications for an entrepreneur. Trade names are discussed briefly in both Chap 16 (under Risk to Intangible Property) and Chap 17. You should read that material before doing this assignment. Note the difference between a trade name and a trademark. Businesses fight infringement all the time - sometimes winning and sometimes not. Another potential problem is the "genericization" of a trade name or trademark through common usage. 1. Do an Internet search for "generic trade names." Some "borderline" ones include Mary Janes, Loafers, Ouija board, Peg-Board, Tabasco Sauce, Mini-bar, Skivvies, Sheetrock, Rollerblades, Windbreakers, Seeing-Eye dogs, Dumpsters, and Dobros. What is the REAL generic name for these products? 2. Former brand names that lost their protected status include pogo stick, heroin, cellophane, dry ice, leatherette, jungle gym, zipper, escalator, trampoline, nylon, kerosene, thermos, and shredded wheat. What implications do this loss of trade name or trademark protection have for an entrepreneur