Local Technology Leaders Meet To Discuss Challenges With Software Licensing Contracts; Unveil New Strategies For Leveraging Software Escrow Programs

MIAMI and FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., April 19 /PRNewswire/ -- More than 80 South Florida software developers, licensees and technology leaders attended a recent business technology education program sponsored by the South Florida Technology Alliance (SFTA) and discussed emerging issues regarding software licensing contracts and new strategies for leveraging software escrow programs. SFTA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the growth of South Florida's technology industry, served as host to the March 25 panel discussion titled, "What You Don't Know May Cost You – Protect What Is Yours. Software Escrow: A Win/Win for Developers and Licensees Alike."

Moderated by Iron Mountain, an information management services company, the panel included: David Brake, director with Deloitte & Touche LLP; Cecilia Lim, senior manager with Florida Power & Light; and Albert B. Maggio, Jr., attorney with Carey Rodriguez Greenberg & Paul LLP.

Iron Mountain led the panel through an in-depth discussion of the numerous ways that software licensing contracts may be strengthened for software licensees and developers through a strategic use of software escrow. These strategies included:

• Characterize the risks of licensing mission-critical applications
• Identify which materials (including software, documentation and instructions) should be deposited in escrow accounts
• Leverage software escrow programs to their fullest potential
• Protect intellectual property rights

"We greatly appreciate SFTA's support in helping us educate the community about the significant value that technology escrow provides for developers and licensees in terms of protecting intellectual property, mitigating risks and ensuring business continuity," said John Boruvka, vice president of intellectual property management at Iron Mountain Digital.

Chip Casanave, CEO of Data Access Worldwide, who attended the event, added: "Escrow agreements are critical for success, and as an Iron Mountain customer, Data Access Worldwide has learned first-hand that working with clients to establish an escrow agreement can help to build trust that benefits the entire relationship."

Iron Mountain, the program's platinum sponsor, provided a complimentary "Software Escrow for Dummies" resource guide to all meeting attendees. The company is extending that offer to other community members as well. The guide may be ordered online for free at: http://digital.ironmountain.com/content/SoftwareEscrowforDummies

About South Florida Technology Alliance (SFTA)

With more than 11 years of leadership as the region's most effective technology organization, the South Florida Technology Alliance (SFTA) promotes the growth, success and awareness of the South Florida technology community. Its member roster includes South Florida's leading high-tech, high-growth companies. Through events, networking, programs and education, the SFTA provides south Florida's technology-related companies, academic institutions, entrepreneurs, governments and related organizations with an active forum to grow the business of technology. For more information about the SFTA, visit www.SouthFloridaTech.org.

SOURCE South Florida Technology Alliance