What are my IP rights?

Summary

stSoftware's award winning patented multi-layered database structure separates generic and custom client code and data into different database layers. The code and data held in the Client App Layer and the Client Data Layer are the intellectual property (IP) of the client. The code and data held in the st Engine/App Layers are the IP of stSoftware.

The multi-layered database structure provides more than a designation of IP, they are integral to customising a generic solution which is rapid and affordable. Generic functionality can be easily customised rather than having to develop a custom system from scratch.

Specific client requests are normally broken down and implemented as generic features and then customized to the clients' requirements unless otherwise requested. Generic features are maintained/enhanced by stSoftware on going.  

Overview of a typical database layer structure in a custom cloud system

The client owns the IP for all code and data that is located in their Client App Layer and Client Data Layer for all stSoftware solutions.

stSoftware's Engine/App Layers

• Generic features and data held in these layers are the IP of stSoftware
• The cost of developing these features is shared by stSoftware and the client requesting the generic changes
• The cost of maintaining these layers is the responsibility of stSoftware
• There is NO client IP over any of the generic features/data in the base layers. 

Client's App Layer

• Contains client specific screens/classes that are not generic
• The client owns the IP (including Business Rules)
• The client is responsible for the full cost of development and ongoing maintenance of the/Client App Layer including keeping compatibility with future browsers/features and keeping integration points compatible with other systems

Client's Data Layer(s)

• Contains all the system's 'business data'
• The client owns all the IP rights for the 'business data'
• Completely private and is only accessed by ST for backup, support and redundancy purposes

Note: The structure can support multiple Client Database Layers, this is an additional benefit of the layering that enables the sharing of system functionality. For example in a franchise arrangement each franchisee has access to a discreet and totally private data layer and also has access to the shared Group App Layer and Group Data Layer