copyright

[bailiff]

Hi Group,

I am in the stages of developing a computer program to work within the industry I am in. The software isnt yet on the market and i would like to protect my idea. Does anyone have any experience in copyright? How to do it? costs etc? or can any one offer a company who could deal with the matter on my behalf.

I would appreciate any information

thanks
simon

[vigo]

Copyright is automaticly granted as soon as you create something. IF you want to prove copyright burn the source and all the docs to a CD, send it to yourself via registered post (proves the date) and put the envelope unopened in a secure safe deposit box in your bank or solicitor's office.

[Ozzy]

You may also be able to look at Patent, but the problem with Patents is you have to make public how you are doing what you are doing!

[MikeH]

A patent refers to something with an industrial application. Copyright subsits on your work from creation. Patenting software may prove difficult, I am not sure where the lines are drawn on this matter.

[Ozzy]

I spoke to a Patent Attorney about patenting the automated Anti-Moneylaundering checks my system carries out on orders placed through the Quick system (a software application). He explained that although yes it can be done it would mean making the code public, and then someone can copy it but change a few aspects to get around the patent ... so I decided not to both :-)

[bailiff]

Hi Group,

I will just copyright my idea and avoid the patent idea all together.
I would like to thank all those you replies to my topic.

All the best
simon

[MikeH]

Just to clarify. You can't just copywight an idea. The written word is automatically protected by copyright the instant it is made. You do not have to do anything, it subsists. Just write the code to the software and it is protected, but listen to the advice given above to make sure you can prove when you created it.

Mike.

[Crossguard]

Give me a call Simon and I'll talk the options through with you.

[Eagle]

There is in fact no copyright on ideas - so keep things under your hat as much as possible to protect the product. :)