Optimising Trade Secret Management in the UK: Advanced Processes, Strategic Protection Practices and Mitigations for Information Misappropriation

Trade secrets are critical assets for companies, providing a competitive edge by safeguarding valuable information and innovations. Unlike patents, however, trade secrets do not require public disclosure, enabling companies to maintain a competitive advantage by keeping critical information confidential. Rapid technological advancement and the increasing value of intangible assets means that effective trade secret management is, therefore, becoming ever more important for sustaining a firm's competitive position and fostering innovation. Simultaneously, however, comprehensive frameworks and processes for trade secret identification, protection, and misappropriation mitigation remain underexplored in the literature and practice. Consequently, this PhD research aims to address this gap and develop an in-depth understanding of trade secret management processes, examined through the lenses of Resource-Based View (RBV), Dynamic Capabilities (DC), and Knowledge Management (KM) theories. This research combines qualitative methods across four distinct papers using a sequential mixed-methods approach. The first paper uses a systematic literature review (SLR) to develop a strategic framework for trade secret protection, integrating RBV and DC theories. The second paper explores trade secret management processes through a thematic analysis of 52 UK legal cases and five expert interviews. It highlights the importance of organisational awareness, employee commitment, and support from legal, IT, and HR departments. The third paper addresses the challenges of trade secret identification, proposing a UVRIP framework based on KM theory and providing a strategic tool for systematically identifying and categorising trade secrets. The final paper presents a comprehensive approach to trade secret misappropriation mitigation, outlining a step-by-step process aligned with DC theory, incorporating findings from industry interviews and legal case studies. The key findings of this PhD research underscore the dynamic and multifaceted nature of trade secret management, necessitating the simultaneous application of RBV, DC, and KM theories.This study introduces a structured trade secret management process, emphasizing the strategic alignment between trade secret management and broader organizational goals. It advocates for the implementation of internal policies, employee training, and robust protection mechanisms. The research significantly contributes to academic literature and practical management by providing a comprehensive framework and process for trade secret management. It offers valuable insights for managers, policymakers, and stakeholders aiming to enhance trade secret protection and leverage these critical assets for sustained competitive advantage. The study also presents country-specific recommendations for the UK and enhances global understanding and practices of trade secret management. In conclusion, this PhD research integrates multiple theoretical perspectives and provides actionable strategies for effective trade secret management, fostering more resilient and innovative business practices.