What Happens to Your Know-How When Key Staff Walk Out the Door?

In its latest publication, Shaohe Law Firm explores a critical but often overlooked topic: how companies can investigate and respond to the unauthorized use of proprietary know-how by former technicians. The article focuses on legal and practical strategies companies can adopt to safeguard their core technologies after employees exit.

The piece outlines best practices such as tracking former employees’ career paths, monitoring competitors’ product developments, and conducting targeted patent searches. It emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation, including identifying the "keys" of know-how and understanding how this information may be transferred or misused.

This practical guide is especially relevant for companies operating in technology-intensive sectors, where competitive advantage hinges on confidential technical expertise.

Click here to read the full article in English, German, French or Chinese.