[SML] Protecting IP when working full time.

[Scott C. Parker]

Hi All,

Question: How to respond to the "everything you do here belongs to us"
clause in the contract for prior experience and work? This is in
regards to teaching others how to use VectorWorks.

I am about to accept a job offer and one of the items in the employee
manual states that all work done whilst employed is considered "work
for hire" and that the company owns it. Yes, I understand how that
works and I'm fine with it. It's not creating artistic lighting
designs for stage shows as we know it.

One job item is to teach VectorWorks. A major reason I am attractive
to this company is my background in teaching VW as both a freelancer
and a university professor. Over the years, I have written many lesson
plans, learning materials, etc. and I've also been working on a
textbook. (who hasn't?)

The company will want me to create learning materials etc. for the
training I do for the company. These will be based on my past
experience, etc. How do I pose the concept that my training materials
should be exempt from the work for hire clause. Obviously, handouts I
create for these fellow staff members will belong to them and the
company. But, a year down the road when I make a handout for someone
else, I don't want to get nailed for taking the "work for hire." (How
many different ways can one say, click here and drag?)

By the way, the company uses VW as part of their process to provide a
service to their clients that have nothing to do with VW itself.

Thoughts?

Thanks,
Scott

Scott C. Parker
Lighting Designer http://scpld.com/ Studio 212-533-3430  Cell 718-757-6661
http://twitter.com/stageseminars   https://www.linkedin.com/in/lightingdesigner
USA829, IES, PLASA, USITT, ETCP certified Rigger & Electrician