Start with the high-level challenge.

When a written agreement may be appropriate

A mutual NDA can be considered before a detailed business disclosure. The signed agreement defines the purpose, permitted recipients, exclusions, term, return or destruction, and governing law.

What to share before an NDA

Use a broad category, the type of customer, and the high-level business problem. Keep proprietary methods, source code, protected lists, unreleased designs, and trade secrets out of the public request.

Your ownership

You retain ownership of your ideas. Any service relationship, access permission, or license must be stated in a written agreement.

Important legal note

Final confidentiality agreements and legal terms require review by qualified counsel.