The inventory begins with information whose loss or disclosure could harm the planned business economically. Technical know-how may include production parameters, formulas, source code, prototypes, experimental data, and negative test results. Commercial information may include customer lists, pricing calculations, supplier terms, forecasts, and negotiation data. For each entry, document what the information consists of, where it came from, who needs it, and the economic value of keeping it confidential. Information that is generally known, readily accessible, or easily identifiable from the finished product is not equally suitable for protection as a secret. A blanket designation of all company data makes it harder to define the scope and weakens practical management. It is useful to establish graduated categories based on sensitivity and the potential harm of disclosure. Related pieces of information may also merit protection as a particular compilation, even if individual components are known. For inventions, also decide whether lasting secrecy is realistic or whether filing a patent application, followed by publication, would be a better fit. The trade secret register should be updated regularly when new projects begin, personnel change, collaborations take place, or information is published.
Defining protectable trade secrets before starting a business in Georgia
Business information may qualify as a trade secret if it is not generally accessible, has economic value specifically because it is secret, and is actually protected. Before starting a business in Georgia, technical and commercial information should therefore be recorded individually, assessed, and assigned a clearly defined scope of secrecy.
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