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I want to try selling something I've made but my employer may 'own' it (alien.top)

submitted 11 months ago by crediblezephyre@alien.top to c/entrepreneur@indiehackers.space

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Over the last few months, I've spent a fair amount of time building a tool that I'm reasonably certain I can sell (nothing novel, don't get too excited) and I would really like to try. I know there is a customer base and I know it's useful... because I built it to use myself. But I also plan to use it at work, that's half the reason I built it. In fact, most of the company templates are just mine that I brought with me when I was hired.

While 90% of the time I spent building it was in the evenings, on my 'own' time... perhaps 10% of it was 'company' time where I had free time and spent it building this tool.

I'm 90% certain that my employee contract states any 'inventions' created are owned by the company, which is pretty standard in my industry. So I have a few questions:

Does my employer own this tool? (I know you aren't lawyers, but maybe someone has insight?)
What is the risk of selling it anyway? What happens if I sell it and use it at work?
How do I find a clear path forward (without hiring a lawyer. This is practically hobby-tier, I don't want to take it that far)

Posting from alt account because I'm paranoid and want to retain anonymity JIC

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[–] McN697@alien.top 1 points 11 months ago (2 children)

Legally, consult a lawyer, etc.

Practically, you need to weigh how much your employer will care or know. There are (petty/shitty) companies that sue to exert control, but if your market is relatively small, it’s not worth it to the company. Just don’t talk about your side hustle at work.

[–] crediblezephyre@alien.top 1 points 11 months ago (1 children)

Decent chance my company doesn't care but if I was going to bring it up, wanted to be sure I knew all my options.

Hearing loud and clear to consult a lawyer/take this seriously. Thank you!

[–] LipTicklers@alien.top 1 points 11 months ago

Speak with someone in HR about a tool you are considering developing and get an agreement