Production secrets of the means of information, including a formula, pattern, compilation, program, device, method, technique, or process, that: (1) derives independent economic value, actual or potential, not be known to the public or to other persons who can obtain economic value from its disclosure or use, and (2) it is the subject of efforts that are reasonable under the circumstances to maintain its secrecy .

However, in order to protect your trade secret, you must first know what information classified as commercial secrets. Trade secrets generally fall into two categories:

1. Technical information, and
2. Business information.

Trade secrets are in the category of technical information may include: (1) Plans, designs and patterns, such as specialized equipment, (2) The processes and formulas, (3) The methods and manufacturing techniques, (4) engineering notebooks, Even (5) Negative information means that the drawings have not worked.

On the other hand, trade secrets that are in the category of commercial information may include the following: (1) The financial data prior to publication, (2) Cost and pricing information, (3) Manufacturing for information, (4) analysis of the internal market forecasts Or, (5) the customer lists, and even (6) Personnel information of the company and its employees.

Please remember that the sample above do with information that may be regarded as trade secrets. The real test is whether your information has all four elements are treated as a trade secret.

Being a valuable intellectual asset, the owner of a trade secret must use reasonable measures to protect the confidentiality of trade secrets. Generally, the trade secret owner must execute a confidentiality agreement concerning its employees, contractors, suppliers and other staff. The confidentiality agreement, the holder will ensure that the parties have appointed aware of the existence of the secret information and the duty not to disclose.

Putting warning signs and labels on confidential documents and all machines containing confidential information is another way to protect your secrets.

If, on the other hand, it is not possible for a non-disclosure or confidentiality agreement which must be implemented to protect your trade secret, it is sufficient that you must declare unequivocally that certain information, as part of your business relationship is confidential and should not be disclosed. Otherwise, you are determined to pursue claims for damages as a result of the disclosure of your trade secrets.

Remember, more expensive or unreasonable ways to protect your trade secret is not mandated for your information to be considered and treated as trade secrets under California law. It is enough that you are using reasonable measures, through diligence to protect your regular commercial confidentiality.