William Shakespeare once said, “better three hours too soon than a minute too late.” While the advice is offered in a different context, the words hold equal importance in the implementation of a corporate intellectual property (IP) strategy or policy.
Beginning early is particularly important when establishing a relationship with new employees and other third parties, such as contractors, suppliers, joint-development partners, and even customers. For example, in the United States an invention created by an employee or an independent contractor is owned by that employee or contractor, regardless of compensation paid. Thus, it is important that any and all agreements for services, including employment agreements, contain clauses specifying who owns the intellectual property rights in any work product created during a relationship.
For the full article click here: Employee Confidentiality
Reprinted with the permission of The Enterprise