Things You Might Not Know Can Be Copyrighted

When people think about copyright, they often associate it with books, music, movies, and artwork. However, copyright protection extends far beyond these common categories. Many unique and creative works can be safeguarded under copyright law, providing businesses, entrepreneurs, and creators with valuable protection for their intellectual property. Below are several surprising elements that qualify for copyright protection.

Circuit Board Designs

In the world of electronics and technology, circuit board layouts are often a crucial part of product development. Many companies focus on patents for technological innovations, but copyright protection also plays a role. The specific design and layout of a circuit board can be copyrighted, ensuring that competitors cannot directly replicate your configuration. This is especially important in industries where circuit board design is an integral part of innovation. By securing copyright protection, businesses can safeguard their technological advancements and maintain a competitive edge.

Web Pages

The digital presence of a business is vital, and copyright law extends to web pages. While domain names and basic website structures are not copyrightable, the layout, unique graphic and visual elements, and written content of a webpage can be protected. By registering a c

opyright for web pages, businesses can prevent competitors from duplicating their website’s look, feel, and content. In an era where online branding is crucial, this protection can be invaluable.

Textile Design

Fashion and fabric designers can also benefit from copyright protection. Textile design can be copyrighted in two ways: the original artwork on the fabric itself and the specific way the design is printed onto the textile. This means that if you create a unique pattern or print, you have the right to prevent others from copying and using it without your permission. Copyright protection ensures that your original designs remain exclusive and prevents others from profiting from your creativity

Software Code

In today’s digital world, software is the backbone of many businesses. What many developers may not realize is that software code itself can be copyrighted. As long as the code is original and creative, it is protected from unauthorized copying or distribution. While copyright protects the expression of the code, the specific way it is written, it does not cover the functional aspects of the software. If you want to protect the functionality, a patent is typically the best option. However, securing copyright for your code ensures that others cannot directly copy or reproduce your programming work.

A Series of Blogs or Articles

Content creators and businesses that regularly publish blogs, articles, or other written materials often overlook a valuable copyright opportunity. Instead of registering each piece individually, a series of related blog posts or articles can be copyrighted as a group under one registration. This approach simplifies the registration process, reduces costs compared to registering each article separately, and ensures comprehensive protection for ongoing content creation. For businesses that rely on content marketing, securing copyright protection for written materials helps prevent unauthorized use and plagiarism.

Choreographic Moves and Dances

Choreography is another area where copyright plays a crucial role. Original dance routines can be copyrighted, giving choreographers control over their creative work. This became a hot topic when dance moves featured in video games, such as Fortnite, were allegedly copied from popular choreographers without permission. By copyrighting choreographic works, dance creators can protect their routines from unauthorized use in media, performances, and commercial productions. This ensures that their artistic contributions are recognized and compensated appropriately.

These lesser-known areas of copyright protection demonstrate the vast scope of intellectual property rights. Whether you’re a software developer, fashion designer, content creator, choreographer, or tech innovator, understanding what can be copyrighted can help you safeguard your work and maximize its value. If you’re unsure about how to protect your creations, consulting with a copyright attorney can provide valuable guidance on the best legal strategies for your intellectual property.