Unit- 3. The Name Game.

Before studying this unit I did not know that there are lows to protect the names of the companies. I thought that  when someone created a company he or her could choose any name, no matter if it had  already been taken. 

Looking for information in the internet, I  found this interesting article about how to choose a business name  by Alissa Gregory, who is an expert on business information.   http://www.sba.gov/content/how-name-business. I hope you enjoy it

  

Choose Your Business Name

Choosing a business name is an important step in the business planning process. Not only should you pick a name that reflects your brand identity, but you also need to ensure it is properly registered and protected for the long term. You should also give a thought to whether it’s web-ready. Is the domain name even available? 

Here are some tips to help you pick, register, and protect your business name.

Factors to Consider When Naming Your Business

Many businesses start out as freelancers, solo operations, or partnerships. In these cases, it’s easy to fall back on your own name as your business name. While there’s nothing wrong with this, it does make it tougher to present a professional image and build brand awareness.

Here are some points to consider as you choose a name:

• How will your name look? – On the web, as part of a logo, on social media.
• What connotations does it evoke? – Is your name too corporate or not corporate enough? Does it reflect your business philosophy and culture? Does it appeal to your market?
• Is it unique? – Pick a name that hasn't been claimed by others, online or offline. A quick web search and domain name search (more on this below) will alert you to any existing use.
• Pick a Name That is Web-Ready
  In order to claim a website address or URL, your business name needs to be unique and available. It should also be rich in key words that reflect what your business does. To find out if your business name has been claimed online, do a simple web search to see if anyone is already using that name.
  Next, check whether a domain name (or web address) is available. You can do this using the WHOIS database of domain names.  If it is available, be sure to claim it right away. This guide explains how to register a domain name.
• Register Your New Business Name
  Registering a business name is a confusing area for new business owners. What does it mean and what are you required to do?
  Registering your business name involves a process known as registering a “Doing Business As (DBA)” name or trade name. This process shouldn't be confused with incorporation and it doesn't provide trademark protection. Registering your “Doing Business As” name is simply the process of letting your state government know that you are doing business as a name other than your personal name or the legal name of your partnership or corporation. If you are operating under your own name, then you can skip the process.