[windows software] Intellectual Propery question

[PrimaryTech]

Hi all,

This might not be the right sub-forum to post this but here goes. I've developed a simple Access database that allows pupils to self-assess their ICT work (Primary school setting). I've developed the database both at home and at work and I'm not sure whether interlectual property rights belong to me, my school or the LA? I'd like to release the database template into the public domain for others to use (non-profit), will I have any legal issues?

Sorry it's a bit long and a bit fuzzy!

[bodminman]

Is this something you have created off your own back?

[PrimaryTech]

Is this something you have created off your own back?

 

Yes, from scratch. Also, I was not asked to make it, I made it to make my job of assessing ICT easier.

[featured_spectre]

I would like a copy when its released so I can see what there is.

 

Also if you did this at home and not at school, then its yours, if you did it at work, it belongs to the school.

[bodminman]

I would like a copy when its released so I can see what there is.

 

Also if you did this at home and not at school, then its yours, if you did it at work, it belongs to the school.

 

If he done it at home as part of a request from his employer then the employer would have the rights to the property unless some sort of agreement was made beforehand. But as you have done this off your own back and in your own time, it's yours!

[PrimaryTech]

Cheers nephilim, I'm hoping to set up a small website for downloads, changelog, all that stuff once it's been made slightly more user friendly. The problem I have is that I developed most of it at home but I've made changes to it whilst at work using school hardware / software. Ideally I'd like to release it under GNU GPL.

 

Do you think it would be wise to ask my LA where they stand on the issue?

[bodminman]

I wouldn't bother if it was me.

[featured_spectre]

I second that, if you did the main bulk of the work at home and just use the school stuff to make minor changes, then you have to include them in your footnotes as part of the development process.

[witch]

You need to check your contract - there are many organisations who state that everything you produce, whilst employed by them, belongs to them no matter where or when it was done- and if you used any of their equipment to do it you are on slightly dodgier ground.

Unlikely if you work in a school, but still you need to check.