The most common mistake made by
creators of formats is to submit a rudimentary paper version
of their idea. The more detailed a creative concept for a
television programme is, the more chance it has of attracting
copyright protection. Copyright may help, but it cannot protect
a mere idea. It can only protect the expression of an idea.
The idea needs to be elaborated if it is to be protected by
copyright. Therefore, our first advice is to develop all aspects
of the programme concept in as much detail as possible before
giving it to anyone.
Our second recommendation is to deposit and register a copy of your paper format with date of receipt at FRAPA. This will not originate any
copyright protection; however, in the event of a dispute, the depositor
can give evidence that the paper format, including date of
creation,
copyright logo and date of receipt, was deposited at the office of
FRAPA on a certain date. This provides evidence that the paper format
existed by a certain date. Of course, chronological precedence is only
one
small step in deciding on format disputes, but, as the first step, it
is important.
FRAPA members can list their paper formats in the
International Television Paper Format Registry. The International Television Paper Format Registry is coordinated
from FRAPA's head office in Cologne. The registry is
open to all FRAPA members and is simple to use. To register
a paper format two copies need to be sent to:
FRAPA - Format Recognition and Protection Association e.V.
Steinfelder Gasse 9
50670 Köln
Germany
T 49 (0) 221 - 5 777 530
F 49 (0) 221 - 5 777 533
One copy is kept on file and the other is returned with its
accreditation from FRAPA.