Copyright vs Patent
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Posted by JLS on September 07, 2001 at 04:12:45:
I developed a database using Microsoft Access on my
home computer on my own time. My job is a military
medic. My duties do not include developement of any
kind of computer related products. My database was
used for a 90 day trial period for a policy the
commander was implementing. The database provided
information regarding the effectiveness of his policy.
After the 90 days I deleted the database but was
pressured in putting it back on the computers. I
informed them during the 90 day period that I intended
on copyrighting the database. It can be used by any
medical profession that does physical examinations.
Now the military want me to fill out paperwork to
determine if this "invention" is patentable and what
their rights are to it. Based on copyright/paten/
laws as I understand them it can't be patented but it
can be copyrighted. Since it is not a work for hire
does the military have any rights to the database?
I do have on audio tape the conversation regarding the
trial use of the database. Any help would be
appreciated.
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