Software data banks?

[adecoles]

Hi all

Slightly off-topic question, please bear with me.

I'm an embedded software engineer who has been in full time employment for over 13years. Occasionally I've undertaken private projects, which have been through close relationships I've formed in the building controls industry.

I've recently been offered a chance at significant project which I'm very keen to undertake. However, the customer is asking what happens to the software source code/IP (which I will hold) if I get run over by a bus. Although I've got little knowledge on such matters, I've informed him that I can deposit the software with a company and have a contract drawn up specifying release clauses. The problem is I've no idea what the official term is for this - and as such have not been able to find out any detailed information.

So my questions are, do such companies exist? and if so, who are they?

Thanks in advance for your time and effort

Ade

[DeMan]

Not being a lawyer, this answer migth not be entirely accurate.....

In my part of the world, it is unusual to hold IP over code that has been created at work (unless you work for yourself). Basically, anything done on company time, belongs to the company (even if they didn't comission you to do it), and I would be very careful bringing in code that has been completed outside of work hours to work (unless you trust the company that is asking you to do this {or have a very explicit agreement, detailing code ownership, which I guess is your question} - although frankly, their questions seem a but odd to me).

To establish the code as your own work, I would see the patent office (or equicalent). In some parts of the world, it is sufficient (rather than paying for a patent), to send your idea registered mail, and keep it (unopened) in case ever needed. If any issues ever arise, you have dated proof of when you came up with the idea - although obviously, a patent probably holds more water in court.

Given the questions the company is asking, I would employer a lawyer to write up the necessary paper work. Lawyers have a nice "don't trust anyone" attitude, which means they are more likely to see if someone is trying to take you for a ride (and are probably most aware of subtle implications to such an agreement).

Just my thoguhts!