A Critical Assessment of the Non-Disclosure Agreement in the Framework of the Technology Transfer Process: A Longitudinal Study

Abstract

Information and knowledge have become precious goods in the transitional era toward knowledge-intensive economies. However, protection of confidential information has become a topic of major concern. Confidentiality and the use of the non-disclosure agreement (NDA) are topics touching and influencing day-to-day business life. This study aims to provide a practical overview of the most common and most requisite elements of the NDA within the framework of the technology transfer process, beyond the borders of industry sector or country. The evolution of the content of the average NDA is analyzed, and reflection on the rather unusual elements reveals interesting topics for discussion.