This month FRAPA, the Format Recognition and Protection Association, is launching a new methodology can prove rip-off formats.
The FRAPA Analysis Service (FAS) employs a combination of expert opinion and bespoke analysis methodology to ascertain whether two formats share sufficient similarities to be considered essentially the same. If this is found to be the case, FRAPA will provide a written a statement in support of what it deems to be the original format. This will serve as strong proof in any subsequent legal case and can be used in court.
The FAS’s judgements are based on FRAPA-developed analysis methodology, overseen by format specialists hand-picked for their experience in all aspects of the global business. The methodology lists all the elements that make up a format, and ranks them in order of importance. By comparing and contrasting these key components, it becomes possible to determine whether one format is a copy of another.
“Courts of law are unpredictable when it comes to formats and copyright, and are swayed by many different considerations in format disputes,” said David Lyle, FRAPA founder, board member and president of PACT US.
“But in the real world, it boils down to a simple question: is one format an unauthorised copy of another? At last, we have found a solution to our industry’s greatest challenge. It’s a milestone moment for FRAPA and everyone who has trusted us with the protection of their IP.”