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ADVICE ON IDEA PROTECTION
Last Post Mar 30, 2003 2:25 AM by: matt_sf_bay
Replies: 6
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rudewheels
Posts: 1

ADVICE ON IDEA PROTECTION

Feb 2, 2003 5:35 AM
Hi everyone,
I was wondering if you guys would be able to give me some advice.

I have an idea that I would like to put forward to a large company but don't want them to steal the idea once I have told them.

Is there any way I could protect my idea but at the same time tell them about it, as they will need to know for anything to go ahead.

Any information or advice would be appreciated.

Thanks.
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electronicgadgets
Posts: 12
(1 of 6)

ADVICE ON IDEA PROTECTION

Feb 8, 2003 9:40 PM
No company in their right mind will even entertain the idea of meeting with person unless that person's idea is already patented.

If a certain company is telling you differently, it would be in your best interest to avoid them.
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texastackle
Posts: 4
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ADVICE ON IDEA PROTECTION

Feb 10, 2003 10:56 AM
I pretty much agree with electronicgadgets. If its a workable good idea, a patent, trademark or copyright is your best bet. I've taken deals for clients to the big boys, and the only protection if there is no patent, trademark or copyright, is a "Non-Disclosure Agreement" (NDA). For the NDA to work for you it has to be broad enough to stop the big company from selling or using anything similar to your idea. If they agree to that, they may not be able to use something similar they are working on, so they will not want to sign the NDA.
I'd go back and look at the great idea to see if part or all can be protected with a Trademark, patent or copyright....much more likely to yield success!
Good luck on ya!
IslandJack
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acmeresale
Posts: 61
(3 of 6)

ADVICE ON IDEA PROTECTION

Mar 25, 2003 6:45 AM
texas, actually a © would not work, because you can not copyright an idea or a concept. I copywrite has to be something tangible like a photograph, article etc.

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an01sts
Posts: 6
(4 of 6)

ADVICE ON IDEA PROTECTION

Mar 27, 2003 1:02 AM
ty, ac. You cannot copyright/patent ideas; otherwise, we would not have free thought. Yes! It has to be an item.
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honestauctionz
Posts: 15
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ADVICE ON IDEA PROTECTION

Mar 27, 2003 4:12 PM
Here is a link to the USPTO's FAQ page.

Link

Below is the second paragraph from FAQ #51

#51 What is a patent?
A patent cannot be obtained on a mere idea or suggestion. Patent applications are examined for both technical and legal merit. Prior to filing a patent application, a search of existing patents can be conducted at the USPTO Patent Search Room or at a Patent and Trademark Depository Library in your area. For additional information on patents, you may visit the USPTO Web site at /www.uspto.gov/main/patents.htm.
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matt_sf_bay
Posts: 1
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ADVICE ON IDEA PROTECTION

Mar 30, 2003 2:25 AM
You need to get an interview not based on your idea, but becuase you have an idea. Speak to the benefits your idea will bring to them. Speak to the impacts it will have on current operations and who is paying for those risks. Ask about their interest and if they would like to proceed. If so, make them sign a non-disclosure agreement. The only possible legal defense you have if they implement your idea without you is if you try to implement it on your own.

The reality is,... the sharing of ideas is part of life and we really do not own concepts (though it sure feels like it sometimes). If anyone wants some feedback /advice on this topic, feel free to email me directly. I am a technology consutlant who works with start-up and small businesses.
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