What is the scope of trade secrets
Trade secrets can be divided into Two major categories: technical information and operational information.
1. Technical information
Mainly include: technical design, technical samples, quality control, application testing, process Processes, industrial formulas, chemical formulas, production processes, production methods, computer programs, etc. Trade secrets as technical information are also called technical secrets, proprietary technologies, non-patented technologies, etc., and are often called Know-How in international trade.
2. Business information
Mainly includes: development plan, competition plan, management know-how, customer list, supply of goods , production and marketing strategies, financial status, investment and financing plans, bids, negotiation plans, etc.
Trade secrets include secrets in the production field and secrets in the commercial field
From the perspective of commercial enterprises, the understanding of the scope of trade secrets seems to be broader and more specific, mainly including the following aspects Content:
1. Products.
It refers to the product developed by the company itself and A product with commercial value can be called a trade secret before it is patented. Even if the product itself is not a trade secret, the ingredients and methods of composition of the product may become trade secrets.
2. Formula.
Industrial formulas are a common type of trade secret form. The formulas and chemical synthesis of many foods, the exact ingredients of cosmetics and the proportions of various contents are valuable trade secrets. For example, the formula of "Coca-Cola" beverage is famous all over the world as a trade secret.
3. Process procedure.
It refers to a number of devices that, through specific combinations, can become a Highly efficient process flow. This process may become a trade secret.
4. Machinery and equipment and their improvements.
In the market, disclosed through normal channels Purchased equipment cannot be considered a trade secret. However, if the company improves it in a unique way, it will be more productive or have more uses. Then, this improvement can be regarded as a trade secret.
5. Research and development documents.
How companies record research and development activities in documents , is also a trade secret. Design blueprints, drawings, computer data, experimental results, and designs that specifically indicate the development process all fall into this category. Even documents and records of failed experiments also fall into this category and must not fall into the hands of competitors.
6. Communication.
The company's general correspondence is not a trade secret. Because it is not an object of protection. However, some specific communications are related to the company's business activities and have a bearing on the overall situation. If it falls into the hands of a competitor, it will be of great help to the other party. Such communications are regarded as trade secrets.
7. Internal company documents.
The company has many documents related to all aspects of the company's operations The activities are important and should be included in the scope of trade secrets as much as possible. For example, a company's procurement documents record the company's actual costs for purchasing key supplies or services. If competitors see this document, they can deduce the company's pricing for certain products, which is very helpful to them. Such documents should be included in the scope of trade secrets. Even a piece of computer paper can be considered a trade secret if it is marked with information indicating the company's inventory at any one time.
If you still have any questions, the Legal Savior Network is also Lawyer online consultation services are provided, and you are welcome to make legal consultations.