One of the main features of the computer industry is that it is in a continuous state of change.

This can be attributed to the diversity and range of products and services that are appearing on the market. As a consequence, there are no standard forms of Agreement which are universally used by all suppliers of computer hardware and software with the end users of those products.

Whether you are in the business of selling computer hardware/software or your business is looking to purchase computer hardware/software the Corporate & Commercial Team at QualitySolicitors Oliver & Co can assist.

Who we help:

• Software developers and designers;
• Suppliers of computer hardware/software;
• Customers who are procuring computer hardware and/or bespoke software for their businesses - which will apply to almost any business;
• Parties to disputes regarding software development, ownership and licensing arrangements.

Computer software, hardware and systems are technologically complex. It is therefore crucially important that any contract is clear about what is being supplied and what rights the parties have to own or exploit any intellectual property.

It is crucial that any IT related transaction is properly structured from the outset. If the terms of the transaction are not adequately recorded, problems may arise in a number of circumstances:

• When the customer thinks they have paid for something which they have not received;
• When a system does not perform;
• When payment is withheld for a system's failure to meet poorly defined functionality requirements;
• When a supplier gives away more rights than they intended (often with very serious implications for their ongoing business);
• Infringement of third party rights and licences;
• Software / hardware support, maintenance and upgrade issues.

We will:

• Apply our extensive experience and expertise in drafting and negotiating IT agreements to meet the needs of your business;
• Ensure that any intellectual property rights are adequately protected, are not prejudiced and may be properly exploited;
• Understand your commercial requirements and take a practical approach which ensures that the needs of your business are met and any risks are minimised;
• Provide you, whenever possible, with a fixed fee quote for the drafting of certain IT agreements

At QualitySolicitors Oliver & Co we have extensive experience in dealing with the full spectrum of IT related matters. We can assist in connection with all or any of:

• Computer software design, development, licensing, support and maintenance agreements;
• Computer hardware and system design, development, licensing, integration, maintenance and support agreements;
• Escrow agreements;
• Web design, development and hosting agreements;
• Intellectual property rights including databases.

For further advice and information use the contact form or call 01244 354697 and ask for Tim Polding.