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The U.S law has been evolving and changing since the introduction of smartphones and social networking sites. Many industries have become more perceptible to having their works stolen, specifically industries that strive online. Under the U.S law, this is Copyright Infringement. According to Bagley, “The United States Copyright Act of 1976, as amended, requires that the material for which copyright protection is sought be original (not copied) and fall within one of the following categories: (1) literary works; (2) musical works; (3) dramatic works; (4) pantomimes and choreographic works; (5) pictorial, graphic, and sculptural works;

(6) motion pictures and other audiovisual works; (7) sound recordings; and (8) architectural works.” (Bagley, 2019)

Graphic designers can also protect their rights through Intellectual Property Rights. “Intellectual property is any product or result of a mental process that is given legal protection against

unauthorized use. There are four basic types: patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets. The Semiconductor Chip Protection Act of 1984 created a fifth, highly specialized form of intellectual property, the registered mask work. Each type of intellectual property is protected in a different way.” (Bagley, 2019)

Pathways is a production company in Ohio that is dedicated to the art of storytelling. As a production company, they design websites for their clients. (Pathways, 2011) Therefore, they have to be careful about making sure they are following the law in terms of Copyright infringement. Managers at Pathway must ensure that their staff is well educated on Copyright infringement laws and Intellectual Property law, and Pathways must make sure to have contracts with their clients as well as employees to ensure that they are following the proper precautions and regulations. 

In my opinion U.S law has been trying to catch up with all the new digital technologies and platforms. However, the internet is the fastest platform to ever exist, and the law might not be able to catch up as fast. For now, I think it protects creative individuals.  

References

Bagley, C. E. (2019). Managers and the Legal Environment: Strategies for the 21st century (9th ed.). Cengage Learning