The explosive growth of open source software over the past decade poses significant risk to Woodcock Washburn clients' intellectual property rights. Open source software is now readily available and used in mainstream product offerings from entertainment systems to consumer electronics to automation systems, and it is widely deployed in the information technology departments of virtually every kind of business. However, its use can jeopardize a company's intellectual property rights in its own software. Our attorneys help developers and engineers who choose open source software to protect their company's intellectual property assets.
Woodcock Washburn lawyers are seasoned experts in open source development projects and licensing, concentrating in establishing policies that help engineers use the software in a way that fits the company's strategy. In fact, one of our attorneys was previously in charge of open source licensing and policy at a major software company.
Our firm helps companies secure the rights to the open source software they obtain in order to help protect their customers from third-party claims. We also advise clients on software compliance programs and due diligence procedures for acquisitions and mergers. Open source considerations are a fundamental part of each software transaction we handle for our clients.
Woodcock Washburn recognizes the importance and pervasiveness of open source software in many industries and has recently formed a group dedicated to advising clients on the pros and cons of using this software in their businesses. For example, many clients may not be aware that incorporating open source components into their products may adversely affect their ability to protect and distribute those products.
Our lawyers counsel clients on the wide varieties of open source licenses, work with them to identify aspects of their businesses that might be touched by open source software, and help create policies for using the software that protect clients' intellectual assets. Recently, our firm:
- Assisted a major software company in drafting patent licenses for open sources software distribution;
- Counseled a major software company concerning the formation and participation in an open source software development community; and
- Advised a major aircraft manufacturer regarding the release of commercial software that includes open source software.
