Copyright in the Age of Software: What World Book and Copyright Day Means for the IT Industry

In a world where company value is increasingly built on code, data, and digital products, copyright is no longer confined to publishing and the arts. It has become a key legal mechanism for protecting innovation in the IT sector.

Occasions such as World Book and Copyright Day provide an opportunity to highlight that modern digital products, from mobile applications to complex platforms—are, at their core, works of authorship. Software, as a unique form of expression, benefits from legal protection which, when properly structured, can represent a significant competitive advantage in the market.

For IT companies, however, the critical question is not whether protection exists, but how it is structured. In practice, the greatest risks arise when relationships between developers, employers, and clients are not clearly defined. Ownership of source code, rights of use and commercialization, and licensing limitations are frequent sources of misunderstanding and, not infrequently, disputes.

Additional complexity stems from modern business models built around SaaS solutions, open-source components, and global product distribution. In such an environment, effective copyright protection requires not only legal expertise but also a strong understanding of technology and how digital products operate in practice.

Majstorović & Partners develops legal solutions tailored to these challenges. The firm focuses on supporting technology companies in defining and protecting software-related rights, structuring licensing models, and managing legal risks associated with digital products and platforms.

Through its work with IT companies and startups, particularly in early-stage development, it is clear that a well-designed intellectual property strategy is not merely a protective tool, but a driver of growth. It directly impacts investor negotiations, company valuation, and the long-term sustainability of the business model.

Copyright, therefore, is no longer a formality. It is an integral part of developing any serious technology product. In this context, legal protection evolves from a reactive measure into a fundamental component of innovation itself.

This publication is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or a legal opinion with respect to any specific matter. Legal advice should be obtained based on the circumstances of each case.