Software

Software: legal protection and collaboration in a digital chain

Software has long ceased to be merely supportive of hardware; it now forms the backbone of complete production chains and digital services. From manufacturing processes to smart systems and AI applications, a well-functioning software system is essential for business continuity. A crash can easily lead to stagnation, damage, and liability questions. BG.legal helps you limit legal risks and capitalize on commercial opportunities.

Legal questions regarding software use

We advise on, among other things:

• Agreements with software developers or suppliers;
• Damage allocation in case of technical failures;
• Liability for defective software;
• Ownership, exploitation, and protection of software code.

Software within smart manufacturing and industry 4.0

Within the manufacturing industry, software plays a crucial role in connecting systems, processes, and chain partners. Applications such as robotics, AI, blockchain, or 3D printing create a complex ecosystem where parties need to share data and software. This raises legal questions, such as:

• Who has access to which data?
• What can be done with shared or generated data?
• How is the collaboration terminated (exit arrangements)?

We support the drafting of legal frameworks for collaboration, data exchange, and IP rights.

Protection of software

Software can be protected by copyright, and in some cases even by patent law. The holder of these rights has exclusive control over its use. We advise on the appropriate protection strategy and act in cases of:

• Infringement of software licenses;
• Disputes with parties such as the Business Software Alliance (BSA);
• Conflicts regarding ownership or use of source code.

Our expertise in practice

BG.legal supports in:

• Drafting and reviewing software contracts, licenses, SaaS, and DaaS agreements;
• Disputes over intellectual property or breach of contract;
• Legal guidance in software development and data-driven collaborations.

Do you have legal questions about software, licenses, or digital collaboration? Contact our specialists.