The term "trade secret" is invariably included in
any definition of "Intellectual Property." However, while
the majority of IP types are subject to strict rules, guidelines
and timeframes due to the requirement of registration (e.g.
patents, designs and trademarks), trade secrets do not require such
formalities. Or do they?
Most people are aware of the Coca-Cola story –
possibly the world's most famous trade secret - whose recipe
has been kept secret since 1886. This has been the result of
a carefully considered protection and "disclosure"
strategy whereby access to the secret is strictly limited and
restricted. While such a recipe can be a trade secret, virtually
anything that adds value to a business can be regarded as a trade
secret, and can include any method, formula, device, process or any
information (technical or business, e.g., a list of suppliers) that
gives its owner a competitive advantage. Even the results of failed
R & D programs might be considered
