Abstract

This paper investigates the notion of know-how, its origin, subject and scope. It underlines that the know-how is a separately defined object of intellectual property. The contents of know-how is analyzed (knowledge, skills, experience), its characteristic parameters (absence of legal protection, secret character, economic value, practical applicability), its forms of existence - written documentation, practical experience, in the form of objects. The field of implementation of know-how is revealed - technical and managerial-economic as well as methods of transfer are identified - by the necessary documentation and/or by training. The illegal misappropriation has also received attention.