Help with protecting software while developing

[Superfish]

I have an idea for a software program. I'm currently working on creating it. is there any way that i can protect it before i get the code written and market it? any help would be greatly appreciated.

[WingedPanther]

In what sense do you want to protect it?

[Superfish]

Well, I'm currently working out the details and gather resources to begin writing the code. I'd like to get my name on the idea as soon as possible. I realize you can't copyright or patent an idea until it's concrete. I was wondering if i missed something thought, with software that's in development. How much do i have to get accomplished before i could patent it? It's a cellphone application that i think could be very popular, since i don't have the resources that major companys do i'd like to lock it down before anyone else can produce it.. do i just have to be first to market?

[WingedPanther]

First issue:
you cannot patent software, only thing you can do in software.
Second issue:
you can copyright software. Actually, you automatically have the copyright, but filing may be a good idea.

[Superfish]

Thanks, winged. i'm just a little out of my league on this one. i'll have to instill some help from others, but i don't want anyone else running off with it. i'm aware of non discloser contracts but getting people to sign them is a whole other story. thanks again for the help..

[James.H]

It's tricky telling those you need help from the idea incase they go off and steal it but you need to remember the idea is nothing without the person who thought of the idea = you.

That's because only you know how it will work, what's the next level for it, new features and new ideas etc..

So don't worry, you should trust those helping you. If and when it does get big then get some tangible documents stating you own the copyright instead of just adding a © like everyone.

Hope that helps.

[WingedPanther]

If someone's not willing to sign an NDA, you don't want to work with them. I have to do NDA's on a regular basis. It's just part of doing business as a professional coder.

[James.H]

I agree with WP with the NDA