Legal Question in Intellectual Property in Pennsylvania
How does one protect or patent a business idea or concept so that they can than begin to discuss it with potential companies that have the resources to implement it. The objective is to not allow these companies to just steal it and run leaving you out, but rather to bring you in as the original author albeit without the resources to implement it alone. The idea would involve IT software developement in the app realm.
2 Answers from Attorneys
As a Franchise Attorney I can advise you of two options. First, you can protect your IT software concept to the extent possible so you own it before discussing anything with anybody. Of course, this involves time and money - and usually a lot of both. The other, more frequently used way, is to develop a good Nondisclosure Agreement, often called an NDA. Properly worded and used, it has protected others in similar situations. Consult with a good business or franchise attorney in your area for specific advice.
Mr. Franchise - Kevin B. Murphy, B.S., M.B.A., J.D.
Franchise Foundations, a Professional Corporation
You do need a nondisclosure agreement - but also for protection you may be able to copyright the source code for the software. I am a PA attorney with an office in Media.
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