What is a proprietary notice?

A proprietary notice is a statement indicating ownership that should not be removed. This type of notice serves to protect intellectual property rights by clarifying who holds the rights to the materials or information contained within a document, publication, or product. This can include written works, designs, software, and other creative outputs. By including a proprietary notice, the owner asserts their claim to the material and discourages unauthorized use or reproduction, thereby helping to maintain control over the distribution and use of their work.

Understanding the function of a proprietary notice is crucial in architectural practice because architects often create original designs and documents that require protection from infringement. This practice is not only about safeguarding financial interests but also about upholding professional integrity and recognizing the contribution of creative input.