TSMC, the world’s leading semiconductor manufacturer, is expanding its innovative trade secret management system globally. The company, responsible for producing chips for tech giants like Apple and Nvidia, has developed a comprehensive system for cataloging and leveraging its vast intellectual property. Initially implemented in 2013, this system has already been adopted by 20 Taiwanese companies, including ASE Technology Holding Co. Now, TSMC plans to offer this robust system to companies in Europe and the United States, aiming to bolster innovation throughout its extended supply chain.
Fortune Hsieh, chairman of the Taiwan Association for Trade Secrets Protection, highlighted the system’s dual purpose: protecting trade secrets while simultaneously fostering a culture of innovation. By meticulously documenting its technological advancements, TSMC not only safeguards its intellectual property but also enhances its ability to manage and leverage this knowledge for future development. The system’s integration with HR and IT platforms, further enhanced by AI-driven analytics, allows for efficient project monitoring, collaborative development tracking, and the identification of high-potential talent.
The database, containing over 610,000 registered cases as of July, incorporates a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity. Hsieh emphasized the system’s inherent security measures, including automatic encryption and stringent information security protocols, designed to protect against data breaches. While acknowledging a recent theft incident, TSMC maintains its commitment to safeguarding its intellectual property and continuously strengthening its security protocols.
Legal experts corroborate the system’s value. Jeanne Wang, a partner at Tsar & Tsai Law Firm, highlighted the system’s effectiveness in streamlining the process of retrieving confidential information and facilitating the presentation of evidence during disputes. The system’s efficiency in managing vast amounts of confidential knowledge, a rarity amongst global companies, underscores its potential for widespread adoption and positive impact on the global tech landscape.
