An independent software developer has secured compensation of
£9,000 from a larger developer that used and distributed his
program after he demonstrated it to them in the hope of securing
work. He was assisted by the Federation Against Software Theft
(FAST).08 Apr 2003
Thomas Kelty is an independent developer specialising in technology for medical devices. He was under contract to the larger firm when he demonstrated a product he had developed. He did this, according to FAST, to increase the likelihood of future employment. The larger developer, which has not been named, then stole his intellectual property.
Kelty contacted FAST in November 2002 which helped him secure a settlement. In addition to the payment of around £9,000, FAST negotiated terms to shield Kelty from further misuse of the software.
Julian Heathcote Hobbins, legal counsel at FAST, said: "This is a classic case of a larger corporation attempting to steam-roller the smaller guy. Providing there is sufficient evidence, FAST will do everything to protect software developers, irrespective of their size."