Copyright a website idea without implementation?

Dave!

Hey folks,

I'm just wondering here...

If one were to think of an idea for a website, but not have the expertise to implement it themselves, nor the funds to hire someone else to do it, would it be possible to copyright the idea in such a manner as to prevent anyone else implementing it; yet perhaps leaving the option for someone to buy the idea from someone?

As I understand it, patents for inventions work in that manner; the inventer patents the idea with a description, diagrams, blueprints, etc., and someone can implement the idea with the permission of the inventer (usually for a fee).

Thanks for any comments!

Dave

myxi

Hi

I work in the IP department of a law firm and no you cannot patent a web site. If you have developed a type of software that you will use to run your site you could patent that.

Also if you have a name for what you've thought of you could apply for a trade mark (costly) or alternatively registered a web site in the name of your invention.

cycleoin

you can't copyright the idea for a website. Nor can you patent it or trademark it. All you can do is keep it to yourself till cash for your spare kidney comes through.