This course explores some of the topical issues pertaining to the use of IT in the network environment and the impact of IP on such usage. The first part of this course examines the scope of copyright protection for works that are made available on networks and the possible legal limits on the use of technological solutions to prevent their unauthorised access and infringing use. It also studies the legal responsibilities of network intermediaries in the propagation and dissemination of network materials. Cases such as Virtual Map v Singapore Land Authority and Odex v Pacific Internet will be examined.

The second part of this course examines the legal issues pertaining to the use of free software and open source software. Though the use of such software is generally "free", it is not "free" of legal obligations and restrictions. This course looks at some of these obligations and restrictions. In the context of IT contracts and agreements, the third part of this course also looks at some of the more commonly encountered issues such as ownership of the intellectual property rights in the developed software, protection and possible usage of trade secrets and confidential information, data protection obligations and additional concerns relating to outsourcing. An interactive case study involving all issues raised will also be discussed in this part.

Participants should have some experience with IP and IT issues or have attended basic IP and IT programmes.

Programme Outline